ALCOAST 371/24 - SEP 2024 NATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE SCHOOL (NSARS) HYBRID MODULARIZATION TRAINING PROGRAM ROLLOUT AND MODULE 7 IMPLEMENTATION - INITIAL

R 251218Z SEP 24 MID120001412213U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 371/24
SSIC 16130
SUBJ: NATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE SCHOOL (NSARS) HYBRID MODULARIZATION
TRAINING PROGRAM ROLLOUT AND MODULE 7 IMPLEMENTATION - INITIAL
A. The U.S. Coast Guard Addendum to the United States National
Search and Rescue Supplement (NSS) to the International Aeronautical
and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR), COMDTINST 16130.2G
1. COMDT (CG-5R)/CG-SAR), NSARS, and FC-T announce rollout of
NSARS Hybrid Modularization Training Program, planned to replace
Search and Rescue Fundamentals (SARFUNDS), Maritime Search and
Rescue Planning (MSP) I and MSP II, and Search and Rescue Mission
Coordinator (SMC) Courses. This message announces implementation
of Module 7 and provides guidance to command centers and affected
units regarding expectations and management of personnel
qualifications throughout implementation of new training modules.
Further SITREPS to follow.
2. This modernized training program will include seven modules and a
capstone scenario evaluation:
    a. NSARS Module 1: SAR Foundations (100670) is the first part of
a two-part replacement for SARFUNDS on OWL, focusing on SAR
terminology, SAR system roles and responsibilities, and basics of
distress.
    b. NSARS Module 2: Distress Communications (100671) is the second
of the two-part replacement of SARFUNDS on OWL, focusing on SAR
roles and responsibilities, and distress communications.
    c. NSARS Module 3: Awareness & Initial Actions (100672) is a
four-day virtual learning course, offered on a regular bi-monthly
basis, focusing on initial interviews, resource dispatch, and
application of SAR policy.
    d. NSARS Module 4: Planning (100673) is a 14-day in-person
training offered at Training Center Yorktown, focusing on highly
technical use of search planning software, utilizing SAROPS Web.
    e. NSARS Module 5: Operations (100674) is a one-day virtual
learning course, offered on a regular bi-monthly basis, focusing on
rescue planning, coordination with external resources, and directing
SRUs.
    f. NSARS Module 6: Conclusion (100675) is a one-day virtual
learning course, offered on a regular bi-monthly basis, focusing on
preparations for case closure, conducting ACTSUS briefs, debriefs,
and detailed case documentation.
    g. NSARS Module 7: External Communications (100676) is a two-day
in-person course offered at Training Center Yorktown and replaces
the SMC Course for members pursuing SMC qualification or designated
Active Search Suspension (ACTSUS) Authority. Module 7 can be
taken at any time during the qualification process.
3. The Proficiency Currency Assessment (PCA) is a one-day
virtual learning course and will replace the currency requirements
to attend MSP II and the SMC course, per REF (A). Instead, upon
completion of required components of the NSARS Hybrid Modularization
Training Program or legacy equivalents, every five years members
will participate in either the PCA-SMM or the PCA-SMC sessions in
order to satisfy the five-year currency requirement. Any knowledge
gaps that are identified during the PCA sessions, will require the
member to complete the corresponding module addressing the
deficiencies.
4. Module 7 (100676) will be implemented beginning 01 OCT 2024. All
convenings of the SMC Course (501271) are cancelled.
5. Modules 1-6 and the PCAs will be uploaded and are projected to be
implemented systematically by the end of the 1st Quarter of FY25.
Modules 1 and 2 will replace the SARFUND SPeL course requirement and
Modules 3-6 together replace MSP I & II. Modules 1-6 must be
completed sequentially throughout the member's qualification process
as they progress through unit-level training.
6. For members currently in the qualification process for SMC,
either Module 7 (100676) or the SMC Course (501271) will satisfy the
training and competency requirement per REF (A).
7. Labor obligations are to be satisfied prior to implementing any
associated changes for bargaining unit employees.
8. Enrollment Methods:
    a. Modules 1 and 2 will be available on CG OWL as self-
enrollment.
    b. Modules 3, 5, and 6 will be provided on a first-come,
first-serve basis; no ETR required. Further details will be
provided.
    c. Modules 4 and 7 will require ETR.
    d. Module 4 will require confirmation that prior modules
have been completed by the member.
9. This message will be cancelled on 24 SEP 2025.
10. POC: LCDR Michael Thompson, COMDT (CG-SAR); 202-372-2078.
11. Ms. Dana S. Tulis, Director, Emergency Management (CG-5RI),
sends.
12. Internet release is authorized.