About this Unit
The 139th Medical Brigade (139th Med Bde) was originally constituted in the Army Reserve during the latter half of the 20th century, tasked with providing command and control for assigned medical units. Headquartered at Independence, Missouri, the brigade has played a crucial role in ensuring medical readiness and support for military operations, both stateside and overseas. Over the years, the 139th Med Bde has participated in numerous training exercises and has supported mobilizations for operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The brigade continues to serve as a key component in the Army Reserve’s medical structure, ready to provide vital healthcare services whenever called upon.
Historical Facts
• Historical Roots: The 139th Medical Brigade (Med Bde) traces its lineage to World War II, having been constituted as part of the U.S. Army Reserve, and has supported both combat and peacetime operations.
• Vietnam War Service: Elements of the 139th Medical Brigade provided essential medical support during the Vietnam War, contributing to casualty evacuation and field hospital operations.
• Operation Desert Storm: The brigade played a critical role during Operation Desert Storm, ensuring rapid medical response and care for coalition forces in the Gulf War.
• Combat Support: One of the primary missions of the brigade is to provide command and control for medical units, ensuring seamless medical support during combat operations.
• Humanitarian Missions: The 139th Med Bde has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief and medical outreach in both domestic and international settings.
• Reserve Component: As an Army Reserve unit, the 139th Med Bde is composed of citizen-soldiers who balance civilian careers with their military service, showcasing the Army Reserve’s dual-role capability.
• Operation Enduring Freedom: Personnel from the brigade were mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, providing vital medical assistance in Afghanistan and surrounding areas.
• Medical Innovations: The 139th has been at the forefront of implementing new medical technologies and practices in field environments, enhancing survivability and recovery rates for wounded soldiers.
• Training Exercises: The brigade regularly participates in large-scale training exercises such as Global Medic, preparing soldiers for real-world medical emergencies and mass-casualty scenarios.
• Decorations and Honors: The 139th Medical Brigade and its subordinate units have earned multiple commendations for excellence in medical service, reflecting their commitment and professionalism in safeguarding the health of U.S. military personnel.
