43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron

43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron

The 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (43 AES) is a unit of the United States Air Force tasked with providing in-flight medical care to military personnel and their families. The squadron is part of the Air Mobility Command (AMC) and operates under the Air Force Reserve Command. Its primary mission is to provide time-sensitive, mission-critical aeromedical evacuation (AE) - a specialized form of air ambulance service - across the globe. The 43 AES is equipped to deliver comprehensive medical care in the air, transforming military cargo aircraft into flying intensive care units.

History

The 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron has a storied history dating back to its inception. Originally activated during the early years of the Cold War, the squadron has undergone several reactivations and redesignations, reflecting the evolving nature of aeromedical evacuation and the strategic needs of the United States Air Force. Throughout its service, the 43 AES has been instrumental in providing critical medical support in various conflicts and humanitarian missions around the world.

Mission

The primary mission of the 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron is to execute rapid, efficient, and effective aeromedical evacuation of wounded, ill, or injured military personnel and civilians from areas of conflict or natural disaster to suitable medical facilities. The squadron operates a fleet of aircraft, typically modified C-130 Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-135 Stratotanker, equipped with advanced medical equipment to support its AE missions.

Training and Capabilities

Members of the 43 AES undergo rigorous training to ensure they are prepared for the unique challenges of providing medical care at altitude. This training includes specialized medical training, survival training, and instruction in the operation of the medical equipment used aboard their aircraft. The squadron's capabilities include critical care air transport teams (CCATT), which provide care for the most critically ill or injured patients, and basic AE teams, which care for patients requiring less intensive support.

Operations

The 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron has been involved in numerous operations, both combat and humanitarian, around the globe. These operations include support for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of natural disasters, and support for the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The flexibility and rapid response capability of the 43 AES make it a critical component of the United States Air Force's global reach.

Aircraft

The squadron utilizes a variety of aircraft for its missions, including the C-130 Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-135 Stratotanker. These aircraft are equipped with specialized medical equipment, including life support systems, medical monitors, and stretchers, allowing the 43 AES to provide a wide range of medical care in-flight.

See Also

• Aeromedical Evacuation
• Air Mobility Command
• Air Force Reserve Command
• C-130 Hercules
• C-17 Globemaster III
• KC-135 Stratotanker

External Links

• [Official Air Force Link]