WASHINGTON, D.C. –
Virginia National Guard medics checked on the health and welfare of Soldiers operating traffic control points in support of the 58t Presidential Inauguration Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington, D. C. Out of the nearly 300 Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen serving in support of the inauguration, four medics and one physician assistant patrolled the streets to ensure the safety of not only the citizens of this nation, but the health of the troops.
“This was an incredible mission that could not have been accomplished without the work of many dedicated persons,” said Capt. Michael Hickey, physician assistant assigned to Charlottesville-based Company C, 429th Brigade Support Battalion, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. “We were continually thanked for our presence, encouraged in our mission and supported by our command and other resources.”
Significant preparations were assembled to support this operation, said Hickey. Supplies were collected, issued and accounted for to ensure medical supplies were sufficient to accommodate emergency situations.
The medical treatment team conducted roving patrols to check on Soldiers and Airmen and maintained a stationary point for easy access and contact.
“The support of the people we encountered at the check points, on our tours, and in the community at large was very supportive,” said Hickey. The care and presence of the MTT helped sustain the readiness and high morale of troops and civilians alike. The medical support team was pivotal in the success of the mission, he said.