Special Operations Forces Medical Handbook

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Preface

Special Operations Forces Medical Handbook, 2001, is the first edition of a comprehensive medical reference
resource designed for Special Operations Forces (SOF) medics. This “single-source” reference provides many
revolutionary approaches to accessing medical information, such as a treatment hierarchy based on available
medical resources and mission circumstances commonly facing the SOF Medic. The Special Operations Forces
Medical Handbook is an innovative achievement in military medical knowledge, with contributions by over 80
medical specialists organized into a problem-oriented template for reference to diagnoses and treatments.

As an Infantry Special Forces Officer in Vietnam and later along the Thai-Laotian border, I lived with valiant
medics who did their utmost to care for our wounded and sick. These medics, called “Doc” by the men they
served, primarily relied on the only medical resources at their disposal- what they brought to the war, ingenuity
and courage. To those SOF medic warriors and all those who have served so ably and well since, this handbook
is given in remembrance of noble deeds and honorable intentions, so that those SOF medics who follow can
serve at an even higher level of medical skill and knowledge.

I dedicate this work to all combat medics, especially those of the Special Operations Forces, who have
made and continue to make unsung sacrifices to accomplish their mission: providing exceptional care to their
comrades. If this innovative medical knowledge base makes a difference in the life of one soldier, it is well
worth all the time and effort it took to make it a reality. If this handbook makes that difference, then we have
accomplished our mission.

Brigadier General (P) Darrel R. Porr, MD
Commanding General
Southeast Regional Medical Command (SERMC)
and Eisenhower Army Medical Center