31st Combat Support Hospital

• World War II Origins: The 31st Combat Support Hospital (CSH) traces its lineage to the 31st Surgical Hospital, which was activated in 1942 at Fort Clayton, Panama, during World War II. • Service in the Pacific: The unit supported combat operations in the Pacific Theater, providing critical medical care to Allied forces during World War II. • Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, the unit provided mobile surgical and medical support, treating thousands of wounded soldiers under challenging conditions. • Vietnam Deployment: The 31st CSH deployed to Vietnam, where it operated field hospitals and was instrumental in saving countless lives during intense combat operations. • Transformation to CSH: In 1973, the unit was officially redesignated as the 31st Combat Support Hospital, adapting to new military medical doctrines and technology. • Desert Storm Contributions: The 31st CSH deployed to Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing vital medical support and innovative trauma care close to the front lines. • Humanitarian Missions: The unit has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations and medical outreach programs in Central America and the Caribbean. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The 31st CSH deployed to Iraq multiple times, earning commendations for its rapid deployment and high-quality medical care under fire. • Innovations in Battlefield Medicine: The unit has been at the forefront of developing and implementing advanced trauma care procedures, such as damage control resuscitation and rapid evacuation techniques. • Unit Decorations and Honors: Over its history, the 31st Combat Support Hospital has received numerous unit commendations and campaign streamers, reflecting its distinguished and storied service to the U.S. Army.