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Home • News • Stories • 2013 • February • The Hostage Rescue Team: 30 Years of Service • Photo Gallery

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FBI Deputy Director Sean Joyce, who is a former HRT operator, said there is a sense of “quiet professionalism” at the HRT headquarters in Quantico, Virginia. “I think everyone takes the mission very seriously,” he said. “They have an inner self-confidence in their own ability to execute the mission and fulfill their responsibilities as an operator.”

HRT operators participate in a training exercise. In a critical incident such as a terrorist attack or hostage situation, first responders are usually local and state-level law enforcement and might include SWAT teams and crisis negotiators. If a situation cannot be resolved at that level, federal assets such as the HRT may be called in.

An HRT operator takes a position during a training exercise. Operators are expert marksmen, proficient in close-quarter fighting, and have the tactical ability to breach fortified strongholds and launch assaults with speed, precision, and—if necessary—deadly force.

HRT operators descend on ropes from a hovering helicopter during a night exercise.

HRT operators practice marksmanship and flight tactics during a training exercise.

A suspect is confronted during a training exercise at the HRT Shooting House in Quantico, Virginia. The facility allows the team to conduct live-fire training exercises to enhance their shooting and tactical skills.

FBI agents are evaluated for fitness during the grueling two-week selection process. Selection helps evaluators choose the very best individuals for one of the most demanding—and rewarding—jobs in the FBI.

HRT operators during an underwater exercise.

HRT operators board a ship from their boat during a training exercise.

HRT operators consult a map during a night exercise.

HRT operators enter a building through the second-floor balcony door during a training exercise.

Camouflaged HRT operators practice overland movements.

The HRT is federal law enforcement’s only full-time counterterrorism unit. Operators train constantly to maintain their skills, which include parachuting.

HRT operators approach a landing zone during a practice jump.

HRT operators review actions following an urban assault training exercise near the Hostage Rescue Team’s headquarters in Quantico, Virginia.

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