Board of Directors
Dr. Brian C. Thurston
Chairman
Dr. Brian C. Thurston is the Board Chairman and Chief of Trauma Surgery at Spartanburg Medical Center. He oversees tactical medical strategy and funding.
Dr. Christian T. Minshall
Medical Director
Trauma Surgeon with 9 years of experience working on forward surgical teams for DOW/US Gov. He is the Director of Tactical Medicine for SWAT and the medical provider on the ARES Team.
SGT. Wesley Bennett
Vice Chair
SGT. Wesley Bennett is the Board Vice Chair. He is a Sheriff's Deputy, Combat Veteran, and SWAT medic who serves on the active ARES Team.
SUPPORTING SWAT MEDICAL CARE
ARES Medical Group, INC raises funds to buy medical equipment, supplies, and medications for the ARES Team. This funding ensures life-saving care is available during every SWAT mission.
The ARES Team provides tactical medical coverage for the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team. A trauma surgeon and EMT-certified deputies provide medical support on the scene.
Financial Integrity and Transparency
We are dedicated to directing every contribution toward tactical medical equipment and field readiness to support our vital operational objectives.
Minimal Overheads
Every cent donated is utilized exclusively for the specialized medical assets and resources listed here.
No Paychecks
Expenses are restricted to covering mandatory operational costs such as postage and site upkeep.
Legal Status
ARES Medical Group, Inc. is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 509(a)(2) public charity. Donations are tax-deductible per IRS guidelines.
Leadership & Volunteers
Our leadership serves without pay. Team clinicians are active deputies with the Spartanburg Sheriff Office.