After seven grueling weeks pushed to the edge—physically, mentally, and tactically—nine law enforcement officers stand on the brink of transformation. The Special Operations Response Team’s 3rd Training Cycle is coming to a close, but not before one final test of endurance, precision, and brotherhood—where only the strongest survive. KUAM takes you inside the final days of a program that forges Guam’s elite responder.

Ramon Quinata, one of the training cadre, said, "These guys changed 100 percent, they came in not knowing any tactics. By the end of the cycle, they’re full-blown operators, better for their agency and better for the community of Guam." For nine officers from the Department of Corrections, tethe Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, and the Court Marshals — the final days of the SORT's cycle came down to one mission: prove they were ready.

After seven grueling weeks of physical, mental, and tactical training, the candidates moved into tactical tracking — learning how to read the jungle, follow signs, and work as one when seconds matter. Quinata says the training is designed to prepare officers for real-world emergencies — from locating suspects to finding missing persons. But before the jungle, there were forced entries, cell extractions, defensive tactics, and close-quarter skills — all meant to build discipline, control, and confidence under pressure.

For Customs officer Matthew Tudela, defensive tactics were about more than fighting back. He said they learned, "Defensive tactics such as boxing and jiujitsu, and we were learning to stand our ground, but also to disengage." He said the goal was to deescalate the situation, stand your ground and to gain control.

And after weeks of being pushed to the edge, Tudela says the toughest battle was often within. "Your mind is one of the biggest challenges. There are days you want to quit; you have to push through," he said.

Customs Officer David Santos says every phase of the course sharpened him for the job, saying, "Learning tactics, defensive survival skills, tracking, CQB [close quarters battle] - it all makes me a better officer."

And as the 3rd Cycle comes to a close, santos says the bond built through the struggle will carry onto the field. Officer Santos shared with th cadre, "I enjoyed the memories. We can’t wait to work with you, and thank you for pushing us - we came out stronger than ever."

Seven weeks later, they leave not just as officers who completed a course — but as a tighter, tougher team prepared to answer the call when Guam needs them most.