WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. -- U.S. Air Force Reservists assigned to two Westover squadrons were mobilized to support regional COVID-19 operations. More than 10 Airmen from the 439th Airlift Wing departed for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ today, joining over 120 fellow Airmen from Air Force Reserve Command units across the nation.
The Airmen, assigned to the 439th Aerospace Medical Squadron and the 439th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, were activated in response to the Air Force Reserve Command’s call to mobilize doctors, nurses and medical technicians to support the fight against COVID-19 in New York.
Col. Craig C. Peters, 439th AW commander, said our proactive measures taken early to preserve the health and readiness of our Citizen Airmen and their families has proven beneficial in ensuring our Airmen are ready to assist America in the nation’s responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Reserve Citizen Airmen mobilized today will support the response to a robust American effort to eradicate the pandemic, and they join civilian healthcare professionals, and first responders across the nation.
“These mobilized Airmen were medically screened prior to leaving for their assignment to ensure healthy Airmen are going forward,” said Peters. “I’m honored to command and serve alongside our Citizen Airmen professionals who selflessly run into harm’s way to save lives every day.”
Col. Holly Brewer, 439th AMS commander, has spoken to each of her four mobilized medical personnel.
“They are ready and eager to support the Air Force efforts towards taking care of our nation in this time of crises” she said.
Col. (Dr.) Stanley Chartoff, 439th ASTS commander, said his squadron is answering the call to assist in the COVID-19 response.
“From my own experience treating COVID-19 patients in the emergency department, I know the situation they (the mobilized reservists) face, but I know they are prepared and ready for the challenges ahead,” he added.
“We are committed to taking care of Americans, our Airmen and their families while executing readiness and mission essential operations” said Peters. “The proactive steps we took to ensure protection of our force has positioned our Airmen to rise to the challenge of taking care of Americans and their families now that we have been called upon by the country,” Peters added.