45 AES deploys to save lives part one: Train to deploy but be ready all the time

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Adam C. Borgman
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing/Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., hosted by the 6th Air Mobility Wing, supports 38 tenant units with missions around the world. One of those units is the 45th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, assigned to the 927th Air Refueling Wing.

With a specific mission to evacuate wounded soldiers from deployed locations, members of the 45 AES always ensure they are mission ready to deploy.

"We have a 72-hour response time," said Lt. Col. James Palmisano, commander, 45 AES. "We don't prepare for a deployment. Our mantra is 'be ready all the time', because we never know when we may be called upon."

To ensure they keep within their 72-hour readiness, Palmisano ensures his Airmen are fully qualified and ready to go. One qualifier is to complete all upgrade training and become a five-level, equivalent to a  journeymen, in their career field.

"As a commander, when we get new members assigned to the squadron we offer everything needed to go from a three-level to a five-level as soon as possible," said Palmisano.

The careers within 45 AES is not just a job to most of them. The passion of saving the lives of wounded soldiers is a passion that often leaves the medics in tears.

This is part one of a five part series. Learn more about the 45 AES and their mission in parts two-five.