Group Information

The Gulf Coast Medical Response Group

In March 2003, the Texas Medical Brigade officially became part of the Texas Military Forces (under the Texas Adjutant General) at the express direction of the Governor of Texas.

Each medical unit under the Texas Medical Brigade is cosponsored by a state-supported health science center. The Gulf Coast Medical Response Group (GCMRG) is cosponsored by The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and is under the command of Lt. Colonel Roger Vertrees, PhD.

The goal of the Medical Brigade is to respond to Texas public health emergencies including biological terrorism and natural epidemics. Its membership consists of trained, licensed and indemnified health professionals and medical support personnel who train and prepare to support lead public health authorities with surge and specialized emergency skills. Texas Medical Rangers serve in team response and as individual cadre who assist and train others, augmenting the emergency response efforts of public health authorities.

The GCMRG is supported by three companies, Headquarters, Alpha, and Bravo Company. Headquarters company is comprised of the group commander and other unit leadership and support  personnel. Alpha Company personnel are from the Galveston County area while Bravo Company is organized with Brazoria County personnel.