913th Medical Detachment

• Vietnam War Origins: The 913th Medical Detachment was originally activated and deployed during the Vietnam War era, providing crucial medical evacuation and support services to U.S. and Allied forces. • Aeromedical Evacuation Specialists: The unit specialized in aeromedical evacuation (medevac), utilizing helicopters to rapidly move wounded soldiers from the battlefield to field hospitals. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 913th had a unique unit crest featuring a medical caduceus, symbolizing their mission of lifesaving and medical care under combat conditions. • Operation Dust Off: Members of the 913th participated in the famous "Dust Off" missions, which became synonymous with helicopter medevac in Vietnam and saved thousands of lives. • Decorations and Commendations: The unit and its members received multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for their bravery and devotion to duty. • Women in Service: The 913th was among the early Army medical units to integrate female nurses and medical personnel in combat support roles, paving the way for greater gender integration. • Innovations in Field Medicine: The unit contributed to advancements in trauma care, including rapid triage methods and the use of portable medical equipment in austere environments. • Global Deployments: After Vietnam, the 913th Medical Detachment was mobilized for various humanitarian missions and military exercises around the world, demonstrating adaptability beyond traditional combat zones. • Cold War Readiness: During the Cold War, the 913th was maintained at high readiness, prepared to deploy on short notice in support of NATO operations in Europe. • Legacy of Service: Former members of the 913th have gone on to distinguished careers in medicine, nursing, and military leadership, with their experiences influencing modern medevac doctrine.