SRT personnel perform a tactical extraction exercise.

In light of recent natural disasters along the Gulf Coast, SRTs have committed personnel to provide tactical relief assistance to law enforcement in affected areas. SRT will continue to honor Federal, state, and local tactical aid requests in support of the National Strategy.

The SRT National Charter has brought standardization and enhanced capabilities for the individual teams. SRT personnel are conducting various joint missions and training exercises in order to improve inter-operability. SRT units have developed a reputation of excellence, dedication, and selflessness. SRT units have continued to expand their scope and capabilities in addressing the growing threats to the United States and its interests abroad. Each year, SRT continually receives support requests from U.S. military and law enforcement entities. Missions have included domestic training and advisory functions, counter terrorism operations, counter narcotics operations, high-risk warrant service, dignitary protection, interdiction and patrol operations, and tactical training to other law enforcement agencies and military units.

SRT personnel clear a building in support of Hurricane Katrina tactical relief efforts.

In 2002, SRT worked jointly with the United States Secret Service to secure sports venues at the Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games. Recent natural disasters have vaulted SRT personnel into tactical relief operations (TRO) by providing hurricane relief aid to Gulf Coast residents and law enforcement support to law enforcement agencies affected by Hurricane Katrina.

Current SRT operations include, ongoing support of the U.S. military and law enforcement in domestic tactical training, Sector intelligence operations, dignitary protection of U.S. Officials, and missions in support of Sector initiatives. As a result of current and past missions, significant arrests and seizures have been made which have helped prevent terrorist, smuggling, and narcotic infiltration into the United States.

	SRT personnel search for survivors in a New Orleans office building.

Agents wishing to become SRT members must meet the following requirements:

• Have a minimum of two (2) years of continuous Border Patrol service in good standing
• Obtain a passing score of 85% or better on the Border Patrol Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB) & the firearms qualification course of fire (at least 306/360)
• Pass an oral interview panel conducted by a current SRT and a Sector Staff member
• Successfully complete a SRT Selection Course
• Make proper application for consideration to their Sector Chief Patrol Agent

Agents interested in applying should contact their local Sector SRT office or Field Operations Supervisor (S3) Jim Cody or Robert Lindemann at Headquarters BORTAC in El Paso, TX, (915) 231-2850.