PCSO Deputy Welch finishes SWAT Basic Training

Deputy Jerry R. Welch of the Phillips County Sheriff's Office, (PCSO), recently attended and completed a week of SWAT basic training. Deputy Welch has been a member of the Northeastern SWAT Team for over a year and has functioned as the unit's ground commander.

The course consisted of five vigorous days of intense training provided by a Washington State SWAT Unit. The Washington Unit has trained many SWAT Teams throughout the country. Through the course Deputy Welch and the Northeastern SWAT Team mastered multiple tactile skills and maneuvers; individually and cohesively as a unit. The deputy also achieved certifications, and completed the course with a 100 per-cent on his final exam.

The PCSO family and Sheriff Moran have been supportive and instrumental in Deputy Welch's advanced training opportunities. Sheriff Moran is encouraging further advancement for Deputy Welch. He will continue to serve Phillips County and the Northeastern SWAT Team with sniper and interrogation training in the near future.

The SWAT Team will function throughout the Northeastern Montana Region.

Deputy Welch is the son of Vince and Carolyn Schmoeckel, and Jerry and Jan Welch all of Malta. Deputy Welch is married to Beth Welch. They have four children; Ostin Welch, Zach Welch, Hailey Welch, and Kash Welch.