BAMBERG, Germany -- Another chapter in the history book of the Army in Europe came to an end as the Bamberg and Schweinfurt Army Health Clinic colors were cased in a ceremony at Freedom Fitness Facility, Warner Barracks, May 28.
The ceremony for both clinics signifies another piece of Army in Europe transformation, as these two American military communities move closer to complete closure. The clinics will continue seeing patients for a few more weeks before transitioning all health care to the German healthcare system or other Military Treatment Facilities in Europe.
COL E. Darrin Cox, commander of the Bavaria Medical Department Activity, and COL Chadwick A. Bowers, commander of the Bamberg and Schweinfurt Army Health clinics, spoke at the ceremony.
"Our American Soldiers have occupied these communities since the end of World War II, and so today we should recognize it is a change much larger in significance than we may realize," Cox said. "Because of our partnership with the local communities and German medical facilities, I believe the German and American ties in this community will continue to exist and move forward. We may be leaving these communities physically, but the connections here will always remain."
Cox thanked all of the current and former leaders, Soldiers and staff members of both clinics for their dedication to patient care for so many years.
"This is a bittersweet day for Army Medicine in Europe and for the Bavaria MEDDAC," he said. "This ceremony today can be considered the end of an era. But, the legacy the Bamberg and Schweinfurt communities forged will always remain."
Bowers spoke about the advances in Army Medicine throughout the years.
"Transformation is a journey, and for many of the techniques that are today saving countless lives in Afghanistan, that journey began here in Europe some seven decades ago," he said.
He mentioned examples such as advances in surgical techniques, development or significant improvement in vaccine-preventable diseases, mass production of penicillin, and essential advances in the treatment of shock and control of bleeding.
"You may find these remarks odd considering this is an inactivation ceremony," he said. "I share them with you because the United States cares more for its Soldiers and Family members, its retirees, and expects more from its Army Medical Department, than any other Nation in the World. That's why we have the most capable combat medics, the most capable clinicians and support staff, and the most capable medical units and fixed facilities."
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