Story by GSDF Cpl. Alex Al-Marry
The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Engineer Team of the 911th Support Battalion conducted Debris Clearing and Chainsaw Operations (DCCO) Class Bravo 26 at the Cheatham Landfill in Acworth, Ga., May 2–3, 2026.
The chainsaw operations and safety course produced the largest certification class to date, significantly expanding operational readiness. A total of 20 Soldiers earned initial certification, with one member completing recertification, strengthening the unit’s capability to execute debris clearance and emergency response operations across the state.
The course focused on safe chainsaw operation, maintenance, and advanced cutting techniques under field conditions. Personnel completed hands-on evaluations to validate proficiency, ensuring all certified members met established safety and operational standards required for real-world missions.
Three Soldiers expanded the unit's instructional capability during the course, with two earning instructor certification and one qualifying as an Instructor Trainer. Their achievements enhance the unit's ability to sustain and expand future training internally.
The training enhances operational readiness and strengthens the unit’s ability to support disaster response operations, particularly debris removal and route clearance following severe weather events.
The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, alongside the Georgia Air National Guard and Georgia Army National Guard.
PHOTO CAPTION
Soldiers and instructors assigned to Debris Clearing and Chainsaw Operations (DCCO) Class Bravo 26 pose following completion of the unit’s largest chainsaw certification course to date after 20 Soldiers earned initial certification, May 3, 2026 in Acworth, Ga.
(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Capt. Luz Heaton)