About this Unit
MEDDAC Fort Riley, Kansas, formally known as the United States Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Riley, traces its origins to the 19th century, supporting soldiers stationed at this historic post since its establishment. The unit has provided comprehensive medical care to service members, their families, and retirees, adapting its mission through conflicts from the Indian Wars to present-day deployments. Over the decades, MEDDAC has operated Irwin Army Community Hospital, named in honor of Brigadier General Bernard John Dowling Irwin, a pioneer in Army medicine. Today, MEDDAC Fort Riley continues to play a vital role in maintaining the health and readiness of the 1st Infantry Division and the greater Fort Riley community.
Historical Facts
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Historic Roots: The Medical Department Activity (MEDDAC) at Fort Riley traces its origins to the late 19th century, supporting the cavalry units stationed at the historic post established in 1853.
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Irwin Army Community Hospital: The current Irwin Army Community Hospital, named after Brigadier General Bernard John Dowling Irwin (the first Medal of Honor recipient in the U.S. Army Medical Department), was officially opened on October 30, 1958.
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Spanish Flu Response: During the 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic, Fort Riley's medical personnel played a crucial role in treating thousands of soldiers, as the base was one of the first places in the U.S. where the pandemic was identified.
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Vietnam War Support: MEDDAC Fort Riley provided medical readiness and deployment support to units preparing for and returning from the Vietnam War, reflecting its role in major military conflicts.
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Innovative Training: The MEDDAC conducts frequent mass casualty and emergency response drills, often partnering with local Kansas hospitals and agencies to ensure readiness for all contingencies.
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Women in Medicine: Fort Riley’s medical unit has included pioneering female Army doctors and nurses throughout its history, contributing to the advancement of women in military medicine.
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Desert Storm Deployment: During Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, MEDDAC staff were deployed to the Middle East to provide frontline and support medical care.
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Veterinary Support: MEDDAC includes veterinary services, reflecting the Army’s need to care for both military working animals and food safety on the installation.
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Modernization: A new, state-of-the-art Irwin Army Community Hospital facility was completed in 2016, featuring advanced surgical suites, expanded clinics, and improved patient care technology.
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Community Outreach: MEDDAC Fort Riley is known for its robust community health initiatives, including suicide prevention, family advocacy, and health education programs that benefit both military and civilian populations in the region.
