Yokota medics make moves in aeromedical evacuation exercise
The 374th Medical Group responded to a simulated aeromedical evacuation and mass casualty scenario during Exercise Beverly Morning 24-1 at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 20.
Evacuations and mass casualty scenarios are designed to mirror real-world crises, offering Yokota Airmen an opportunity to improve their emergency response skills while fortifying base readiness and resilience.
This portion of BM 24-1 consisted of a simulated enemy attack on a nearby installation with multiple personnel wounded, warranting an emergency evacuation to Yokota medical facilities. The injured were transported via Yokota UH-1N Huey and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to the 374th MDG, where they would receive immediate care.
“Responding to medical crises is an essential part of our mission,” said Col. Gregory Richert, 374th MDG commander. “They prepare our first responders for the unexpected and ensure we are always ready to provide care and support, no matter the circumstances.”
Supporting units were also assessed, as medical response exercises also test communications infrastructures between the various commands at the incident location and throughout coordinating agencies, executing and improving upon established base procedures.
“We understand that during an emergency, our ability to convey vital information can mean the difference between life and death, and our ability to communicate and cooperate with other units efficiently is paramount,” said Richert. “These readiness actions ensure Team Yokota is ready to rapidly respond to real-world crises and maintain its status as the focal point for power projection in the Indo-Pacific region.”
