Tripler Welcomes Wisconsin Air National Guard for Annual Training

By Capt. Joshua GscheidmeierJune 4, 2014

Air National Guard member prepares immunization
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

36 members of the 128th Medical Group, Wisconsin Air National Guard, recently performed an overseas annual training tour at Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, from May 4th through May 15th, 2014 for deployment related tasks and readiness competency skills training.

"These tours only come up every four to five years, yet you also have to be in the top of your respective categories to even be considered for these special opportunities," said Lt. Col. Christopher Hammond, Chief Nurse at the 128th.

Because of their excellence in individual medical readiness statistics, overall training completion and inspection compliance, the 128th were among only three medical groups to have been chosen for this special assignment to Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC).

"Joint Operations between the Army and Air Force are made possible by units like the 128th," stated Maj. Derek Morton, Chief of Reserve Affairs for the Pacific Regional Medical Command and TAMC . "Their hard work, professionalism and dedication to their Core Values are what made their trip so successful."

In just 10 days, the Airmen were able to participate in 5,375 medical-related procedures in areas such as pediatrics, surgery, admissions, patient advocacy, optometry, dental and emergency room treatment.

"The deployed men and women of the 128th Medical Group would like to extend our profound gratitude and appreciation to the military and civilian personnel of Tripler Army Medical Center and Schofield Barracks for their Hawaiian hospitality, for providing exceptional preceptors and for expediting our training opportunities which enabled us to fulfill over 95% of our planned training requirements during our 10 day tour with you," said Col. Eileen Panacek, Commander of the 128 Medical Group.

TAMC will be opening its doors again in June 2014 for another rotation with a unit from the Hawaii National Guard.