146 Combat Support Hospital

• Origins in World War II: The 146th Combat Support Hospital (CSH) was originally constituted as the 46th Surgical Hospital in 1942 and activated at Camp Barkeley, Texas, to provide medical support during World War II. • European Theater Service: During World War II, the unit served in the European Theater, providing critical surgical and medical care to wounded soldiers following major battles. • Redesignation: The unit has undergone several redesignations, becoming the 146th Evacuation Hospital before taking on its current designation as a Combat Support Hospital in 1993. • Operation Desert Storm: The 146th CSH was mobilized and deployed to Saudi Arabia in 1990–1991 during Operation Desert Storm, supporting coalition forces. • State Mission: The 146th CSH is a unit of the California Army National Guard, providing both federal and state emergency response capabilities, including disaster relief and humanitarian aid within California. • Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, elements of the 146th CSH were deployed to Louisiana and Mississippi to provide medical support and disaster relief in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. • Deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan: The unit has supported Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, deploying personnel and equipment to provide advanced trauma care in combat zones. • Medical Innovations: The 146th CSH has played a role in implementing and refining new battlefield medical practices, including modular hospital setups and rapid trauma care techniques. • Community Outreach: Beyond combat operations, the 146th CSH has participated in numerous community health fairs and medical readiness exercises, serving both military and civilian populations. • Awards and Decorations: The unit has received several commendations, including campaign streamers for World War II, Southwest Asia, and the Global War on Terrorism, reflecting its long and distinguished service record.