ABOUT Moncrief Army Community Hospital
- Establishment: Moncrief Army Community Hospital (MACH) traces its origins to World War I, with the first hospital at Camp Jackson (now Fort Jackson) established in 1917 to serve troops training for overseas deployment.
- Namesake: The hospital is named after Brigadier General William H. Moncrief, a highly respected Army medical officer who served in both World Wars and was known for his dedication to troop care.
- Evolution: Over the decades, the hospital expanded from a small field facility to a modern medical center, reflecting the Army’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare for soldiers and their families.
- Vietnam War Impact: During the Vietnam War, Moncrief Army Hospital played a key role in rehabilitating wounded soldiers returning stateside, and developed expertise in trauma and orthopedic care.
- Medical Innovation: MACH has been at the forefront of several medical innovations, including early adoption of electronic health records and telemedicine for military families.
- Community Role: The hospital not only serves active-duty personnel but also provides healthcare to military retirees and their families, playing a vital role in the Columbia, South Carolina community.
- Disaster Relief: Moncrief staff have often deployed for natural disaster relief missions, including hurricane and flood response in the southeastern United States.
- Training Hub: The hospital is closely connected with Fort Jackson, the Army’s largest basic training facility, and provides medical training and support to tens of thousands of new recruits annually.
- COVID-19 Response: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Moncrief Army Community Hospital was pivotal in testing, vaccination, and care for soldiers, ensuring the continued operation of key military training missions.
- Legacy of Care: Generations of military families have ties to MACH, with many service members citing the hospital’s compassionate care as a highlight of their time at Fort Jackson.