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Reservists deploy overseas to provide medical care

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Paul Flipse
  • 920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Air Force reservists from the 920th Aeromedical Staging Squadron here deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Germany in early September to support the global war on terror.

Once there, they will provide medical care to servicemembers in various stages of transit - from the battlefield to European military hospitals all the way to stateside medical facilities.

In spite of the heavy workload and extended time away from home, the reservists remain "positive and professional," according to Maj. Paul Schulte, director of operations for the ASTS.

"Their attitude is excellent," he said. "(The mission) is something that has to be done, and they do it well. They enjoy being able to save lives."

In fact, many of the departing reservists volunteered for the overseas duty, moved by a desire to contribute to the war effort and make a difference.

"It's what you signed up for," said Capt. Tamara Lee, administrator of physical exams for the 920th Rescue Wing. "You're helping people, making sure they get back to their families. You really can't beat that feeling."

Squadron reservists have had plenty of opportunities to experience that feeling since the beginning of combat operations in March 2003. Since then, members of the 920th ASTS have been deployed to one or more of these three locations almost without interruption.

According to Major Schulte, rescue wing reservists have taken care of more than 20,000 servicemembers since 2005.

Although one could easily use the word "amazing" to describe these reservists in their dedication to their jobs, it's instead the word Major Schulte uses to describe the wounded troops they care for.

"No matter how bad they're hurt, all they want to know is, 'how soon can you get me back to my unit,'" said Major Schulte. "That's what makes us want to keep going back. Helping them is our reward." (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)