Keesler medics shine at EMEDS training Published Aug. 17, 2011 By Steve Pivnick 81st Medical Group Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Five "Dragon Medics" were recognized as outstanding performers following completion of a recent week-long training session at Camp Bullis, Lackland AFB, Texas. Capt. (Dr.) John Dusenbury and Senior Airman Sagan Barber, 81st Dental Squadron; 1st Lt. Bethany Casper and Airman 1st Class Terrance Hines, 81st Surgical Operations Squadron, and Senior Airman Chari Moore, 81st Medical Operations Squadron, were among 38 Keesler medics at the Expeditionary Medical Support training. Col. (Dr.) Paul Nelson, 81st Aerospace Medicine Squadron chief of aerospace medicine, said, "Five of the six outstanding performers were from 'Team Keesler.' This recognition is equivalent to 'distinguished graduate' according to the instructor cadre. These individuals were everywhere and colored way outside their lane, often in a great way. This will make our DCRF (Defense Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Enhanced Conventional Weapons Response Force) exercise go smoothly." He explained, "The EMEDS training was in preparation for the major DCRF exercise at Camp Atterbury (Ind.). During this training, they focused on their wartime skills validation in preparation for this major field exercise. The 'Dragon Medics' built a tent hospital, then performed two days of simulated combat medical care demonstrating emergency stabilization, resuscitation and intensive care of combat wounds. Many of the participants had recently deployed and brought their knowledge of trauma care and stabilization of combat casualties, training our newer medics in lessons learned from the field." Wednesday, almost 100 Keesler medics deployed to Camp Atterbury, about 35 miles south of Indianapolis to participate in "Vibrant Response 12/12A." They return Aug. 24. The 81st Medical Group personnel are providing medical support to 7,000 military members. They are also participating in the exercise to improve readiness skills under field conditions and interoperability with the Army command. The Air Force provides a mobile hospital that can provide emergency, surgical and short-term inpatient care. The EMEDS field hospital is chemical protected and includes a team to decontaminate patients.