JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- A civilian contractor was rescued from a myocardial infarction (a type of heart attack) while participating in United States military supported Operation Deep Freeze at McMurdo Station (MCM), Antarctica, Feb. 13, 2025.
The U.S. committed to a series of continuous operations that support National Science Foundation (NSF) missions in Antarctica since 1955. Specialists have journeyed to Antarctica for decades in the name of science, exploration, and for a historically unique human experience. The heart-attack victim is a highly experienced logistics specialist and 20-mission veteran contractor of the ODF program.
First responders responded almost immediately after the victim collapsed in the galley, with MCM Fire Fighter, NSF and USAF medics attending the victim. After 40 minutes of intense efforts, the patient stabilized and was provided aero-medical evacuation via a LC-130 to Christchurch, New Zealand, for elevated cardiac care shortly thereafter. The patient was discharged a week later and is now recovering at home.
“Having a robust cooperative partnership between the National Science Foundation and the military was key to ensuring rapid medical care and evacuation of the patient,” said Maj. Thomas Powell, McMurdo Station flight surgeon. “This was a win through teamwork and rapid emergency response with a very experienced team, both military and civilian, who worked to ensure the situation was handled well.”
The Antarctic is as remote as it gets, with great distance to the nearest help and limited resources, so the mission contained standardized response plan for medical incidents and select personnel trained to handle them.
Readiness and skilled care of all team members is a crucial part of every mission the USAF and its partners undertake, regardless of it being a warfighting, defense, or supportive role.