About this Unit
The 64th Medical Detachment (Veterinary), commonly referred to as the 64th Med Det (Vet), is a U.S. Army unit specializing in veterinary services. Activated during the Vietnam War, the unit provided essential veterinary care for military working dogs and inspected food supplies to ensure troop health and safety. The 64th Med Det deployed to various locations, supporting both combat operations and humanitarian missions by safeguarding animal health and food quality. Its contributions have been vital to maintaining operational readiness and force protection throughout its service history.
Historical Facts
• Origins in Vietnam War: The 64th Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services) was first activated during the Vietnam War, providing vital veterinary support to military and local animals, primarily from 1966 to 1973.
• Animal Care Under Fire: Unit personnel often worked in dangerous conditions, caring for military working dogs and livestock amidst combat zones, sometimes performing surgeries in field environments.
• Support to Military Working Dogs: The 64th Med Det was instrumental in maintaining the health and readiness of military working dogs, which were critical for detecting mines, booby traps, and enemy forces.
• Humanitarian Missions: The unit frequently participated in civil action programs, providing veterinary care to local Vietnamese civilian livestock, helping to build goodwill and improve public health.
• Mobile Veterinary Support: The 64th Med Det operated as a mobile unit, often moving with combat troops and establishing temporary clinics in austere conditions.
• Cross-Service Collaboration: The unit worked alongside other branches, including the Air Force and Navy, to ensure comprehensive veterinary care for all military animals in the theater.
• Notable Decorations: The 64th Medical Detachment earned several awards for its service, including Meritorious Unit Commendations for exceptional performance in Vietnam.
• Training Local Veterinarians: Members of the detachment helped train South Vietnamese veterinarians and animal handlers, leaving a legacy of improved animal health standards after U.S. withdrawal.
• Deactivation and Reactivation: The unit was inactivated after its Vietnam service but was later reactivated to continue its mission in other theaters, including Europe and the United States.
• Legacy and Modern Role: Today, the traditions of the 64th Med Det live on in current Army veterinary units, who continue to provide animal care, food safety, and public health expertise in military operations worldwide.
