Subject: ALERT Alumni | Recap of 2019

January 2020

Dear Alumni,

As we kick-off the year 2020 here is a look back on 2019 as well as a look forward to the upcoming year.

For the statistically minded:
  • A total of 70 men came to Units 61 and 62. Of that number 65 finished Basic. That is an outstanding figure and a direct reflection of a dedicated staff that demonstrates special care and interest in each man.
  • A total of 55 men returned and participated in ERT training in January and July.
  • Advanced classes offered this past year were Leadership, EMT, Cadre and Flight, Tech Rescue, Mobile Response Team, Aquatics and Campus support team. We did not have sufficient numbers to run a Fire Academy in 2019.
We were able to participate in 42 deployments. Thirteen were directly related to disaster relief. An additional six teams participated in rebuilds with Samaritan’s Purse in the continental United States and a team of eight deployed with Samaritan's to Alaska to assist with the construction of volunteer housing.

Looking ahead in 2020:
As we enter 2020, our goal is to broaden our training to reach more men. Recruiting is always a priority but the efforts are not without their challenges. Our greatest recruiting results continue to come from word of mouth - satisfied “customers” if you will - sharing their life changing experiences as a result of attending one or more phases at ALERT.

Missions Program:
As part of this “broadening” process we’re putting together an Advanced Training Missions program. Our hope is this venue will reach out to men who are not necessarily looking for Emergency Services training but do have a strong desire to receive skills that would be valuable for anyone with a missions mindset. The curriculum is still in the developmental stages but will include practical skills such as mechanical and building, evangelism, leadership, and a mission’s trip for some first hand experience. Contact Lt. Daniel Hawley or Capt. Phillip Vanderford for more detailed information.
“Conquerors” Program for Men: 
We are also in the process of developing a program called “Conquerors” to be held in the Northwood’s of Upper Michigan. It’s a short term introductory program (2-3 weeks) for men over the age of 17 who are either considering ALERT for future training and looking for a jumpstart or for those just looking for personal and spiritual development and camaraderie.
The experience will include physical training geared to your present level, how to study the Word of God, conquering various addictions, (with a specific focus on moral impurity) and more. We’ll also be taking advantage of the outdoors which will include lake activities, river canoeing, and hiking for starters. Contact me if you desire to know more about this program as we continue to expand our vision of Forging Extraordinary Men.

Founders Weekend:
After seeing how much everyone enjoyed the 25th anniversary celebration last year, we decided it would be valuable to hold an annual gathering each February for a time of fellowship and renewal. Mark February 28th-March 1st on your calendar for this event and watch for details and updates on the ALERT website and alumni page on Facebook.

Employment opportunities:
We regularly receive requests from employers to post job opportunities. Below is a recent request we received. You can view more opportunities on our website.
  • UC Health in Fort Collins, Colorado is looking for men to join their facility team at entry level positions. Great attitude, desire to learn and some mechanical aptitude required. Contact Chad Rock at 970-495-7467 for more information.
Prayer Requests:
Please let us know how we can be praying for you or your family. When training is in session we meet daily at noon with battalion for a focused time in prayer. You can email or text them to me.

I praise God for the great staff he has provided for ALERT and the heart of each person here to reach and strengthen men for the kingdom. We want to provide good solid training but more importantly we desire to see men changed internally for the cause of Christ. Please pray with us as we develop material that will affect that cause.
In Him,



Colonel Behr
903-714-3481
International ALERT Academy, 1 Academy Blvd, Big Sandy, TX 75755, United States
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