SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Senior Airman Tyrone Shannon
Duty Title: Aerospace Medical Technician
Home Unit: 45th Medical Group, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla.
How do you support the mission here?
I support the mission by providing medical care with the 386th Expeditionary Medical Support team and our Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility. In EMEDS, I screen patients, administer immunizations, run labs and respond to base emergencies. In the CASF, I assist with patients while they await aeromedical evacuation for higher levels of medical care.
How many times have you deployed and what makes this one unique?
This is my first deployment and also my first time leaving the U.S. That in itself makes this deployment unique. Having the opportunity to actually give exceptional care to injured troops in the AOR is an honor and I love taking care of people.
How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base?
At my home station I work in the Preventative Health Assessment office. I ensure all Air Force active duty members are ready to deploy. In the AOR, I get the chance to use my medical skills more. I provide immunizations, go on ambulance runs, screen patients, load and offload patients onto C-130s, C-17s, and helicopters. I also screen patients' bags following the TSA guidelines to ensure a safe flight.