Army Reserve MEDEVACS deploy for first time since Gulf War

KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Since the events of September 11, 2001, over two million Soldiers have been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, with the exception of the U.S. Army Reserve’s Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) units.

The last time a U.S. Army Reserve MEDEVAC deployed was in 1991 during the first Gulf War. Just after the conclusion of the Gulf War, the 348th Medical Detachment was disbanded until 1994, when the unit reorganized under the command of 5th Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment.

“We are all honored and excited to have the opportunity to be here performing this mission,” said Capt. Justin Mace, the Detachment’s Executive Officer.

“Our Soldiers are prepared to meet any and every challenge that we will face”said detachment commander Capt. Josh Daneault. “Even as we are dealing with the challenges of our company deploying, the company’s morale is great.”

Being the first USAR MEDEVAC unit to deploy since 1991, F Company 5-159th embraced the opportunity to join the already decade-long War on Terrorism.  After being stood up for deployment numerous times without mobilizing, this Clearwater, Fla., unit joined the fight with the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade’s Task Force Wolfpack in Regional Command-East.

While much of the unit has deployment experience, this trip to Afghanistan is a first for U.S. Army Pfc. Ericka Turnbill. 

“So far everything is a learning experience for me, and I’m enjoying every bit of it,” she said.

“Being the first time this unit has deployed since 1991, it’s a good opportunity for the USAR MEDEVAC to show what we can do,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Richard Landers, F Co., 5-159th MEDEVAC operations NCO. 

With something new comes challenges, but the new “Dustoff” Soldiers all say they’re ready to put rotor blades overhead whenever and wherever they get the call.