Medical warriors deploy to Iraq

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Ellen Harr
  • 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs
LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) --  About 100 Airmen from the 59th Medical Wing at Wilford Hall Medical Center here left Aug. 30 to staff a field hospital in Iraq.

They are the largest contingent of about 160 people from the medical center deploying to Iraq.

"We’re proud to be sending highly trained and qualified (medics)," said Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Charles Bruce Green, 59th MDW commander. "It’s a combined effort of all the services to treat our wounded and get them home as soon as possible. It’s a privilege to get the call and the opportunity to put all our training to use to serve our warfighters and our country."

The wing's unique mission as a full-service hospital, center for clinical research and Level 1 Trauma Center helps Airmen maintain their readiness.

"This is why we participate in the local trauma network, so our (medics) learn the skills they will need to treat America’s warriors and coalition troops when they are injured on the battlefield," Dr. Green said.

Airmen from the 59th MDW participate in the wing's medical unit readiness training, which prepares them to practice medicine in field conditions. The training includes instruction and in-the-field training on shelter assembly; field NATO litter and manual carry training, combat stress, triage and other field medicine essentials.

While Airmen are deployed supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, 59th MDW officials will ensure the families of those who are deployed are taken care of.

"The families of our deployed Airmen are an important part of the Air Force family, and we do our best to ensure they are taken care of while their loved one is overseas," said Chief Master Sgt. Richard Hollins, 59th MDW command chief master sergeant.