Jose Jaramillo

The 571st Medical Detachment (Air Ambulance), famously known as "Dustoff," was activated in 1966 and deployed to Vietnam during the height of the conflict. Flying UH-1 Hueys, the unit provided rapid aeromedical evacuation, often braving hostile fire to rescue wounded soldiers from the battlefield. The 571st earned numerous commendations for valor and dedication, exemplifying the Dustoff motto, "So That Others May Live." After Vietnam, the unit continued its service in various locations, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions before eventual inactivation.

The 498th Medical Air Ambulance Company was a U.S. Army unit activated in the early 1950s, specializing in aeromedical evacuation. The company is most renowned for its service during the Vietnam War, where it operated UH-1 "Huey" helicopters to conduct life-saving casualty evacuation missions across hazardous combat zones. The 498th played a pivotal role in the rapid evacuation and treatment of wounded soldiers, significantly increasing survival rates. Its courageous crews became emblematic of the “Dustoff” legacy, earning numerous commendations for their valor and dedication under fire.

The 517th Medical Company is a distinguished U.S. Army unit specializing in medical support and evacuation. Activated during World War II, the company provided critical medical care and casualty evacuation across various theaters of operation. Throughout its history, the 517th has participated in both combat and humanitarian missions, exemplifying adaptability and dedication to saving lives under challenging conditions. The unit has earned commendations for its service, contributing significantly to the Army’s medical capabilities and operational success.