About this Unit
The 121st Evacuation Hospital was a distinguished U.S. Army medical unit with a storied history dating back to World War II. Originally activated in 1943, the unit provided critical medical care to wounded soldiers in both the European and Pacific Theaters. During the Korean War, the 121st EVAC became renowned for its frontline surgical capabilities, operating near Seoul and later establishing a permanent presence as the 121st Combat Support Hospital. The unit continued its legacy of excellence in subsequent conflicts, becoming a cornerstone of U.S. military medical support in the Pacific region.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 121st Evacuation Hospital was originally activated in 1944, serving in the European Theater during WWII, where it provided critical care to wounded soldiers on the Western Front.
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Korean War Service: The unit was reactivated for the Korean War, arriving in Pusan in July 1950 and following the fighting north and south as the frontlines changed, often operating under harsh and dangerous conditions.
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First in Seoul: The 121st was among the first medical units to set up operations in Seoul after its recapture, providing vital medical support to United Nations forces and the local population.
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Longest Serving Hospital in Korea: The 121st Evacuation Hospital (later the 121st Combat Support Hospital) became the longest continuously serving U.S. Army hospital in Korea, operating there for more than 65 years.
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Transformation to 121st CSH: In the 1990s, the unit was redesignated as the 121st Combat Support Hospital, reflecting its expanded role and modernized capabilities.
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Landmark Location: Camp Humphreys: The hospital has been a landmark at Yongsan Garrison in Seoul for decades before moving to the new Brian Allgood Army Community Hospital at Camp Humphreys in 2019.
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Namesake of a Hero: The Brian Allgood Army Community Hospital, which replaced the 121st at Yongsan, honors Colonel Brian D. Allgood, a former commander of the 121st who was killed in Iraq in 2007.
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Role in Humanitarian Missions: The 121st Evacuation Hospital supported various humanitarian missions across Korea and the Pacific, including disaster relief and medical outreach to local communities.
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Innovations in Battlefield Medicine: Throughout its history, the 121st pioneered the use of mobile surgical teams, rapid triage, and air ambulance evacuation, saving countless lives on and off the battlefield.
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Honors and Decorations: The 121st has been awarded numerous commendations, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, recognizing its extraordinary service and dedication.
