Photo By Staff Sgt. Jesse Hanson | U.S. Air National Guardsmen assigned to the 134th Medical Group pose for a group photo...... read more read more
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NAPLES, Italy – More than 40 Airmen from the Tennessee Air National Guard’s 134th Medical Group recently returned from two weeks of joint training at U.S. Naval Hospital Naples, where they worked alongside Navy medical personnel in a busy overseas environment.
From July 8 to 23, members of the 134th supported over 250 patient encounters, helping deliver care across a wide range of departments including pediatrics, radiology, family medicine, dental, public health, emergency services and more.
“This is as close as it gets to a real deployment without actually being in one,” said Lt. Col. Jack Carley, acting medical administrative officer of the 134th MDG. “It gave our team a chance to step into a real medical facility, support actual patients, and work with a sister service in a foreign setting.”
The team was happy to make a difference. One Airman helped confirm an early-stage cancer diagnosis in a patient, while another supported the safe delivery of a baby by cesarean section. Dozens of 134th Airmen rotated through departments providing wellness checks, assisting in critical care, conducting environmental health inspections and training Navy corpsmen on ventilator transport.
Tech Sgt. Hannah Lombard, who was assigned to the pediatrics unit, said the experience helped her grow in ways her civilian job doesn’t often allow.
“Being able to experience something different and challenge myself, like many other members here, has been amazing,” said Lombard. “Everyone here has been so supportive and welcoming.”
The trip allowed members to check off medical readiness requirements and complete their annual training in a hands-on, meaningful way. Most importantly, it sharpened their skills for future deployments and highlighted the value of joint training opportunities with partner services.
While the medical work was the primary focus, the trip also brought the team closer together. Members helped each other navigate international travel, adjust to a new work culture, and lean into their roles with confidence.
“I’ve already seen how this kind of mission builds unity,” said Carley. “Our Airmen stepped up, adapted, and represented the Air National Guard with professionalism.”
| Date Taken: | 07.21.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 08.03.2025 13:27 |
| Story ID: | 543847 |
| Location: | IT |
| Web Views: | 41 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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