HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
MEDIA RELEASE
PR #2018-010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
HELICOPTERS FROM POHAKULOA TRAINING AREA TO SUPPORT HAWAII NATIONAL GUARD MEDICAL EVACUATION EXERCISE NEAR HILO
MEDICAL CENTER
The mission is being conducted to test procedures and ensure smooth military-civilian interface in the event an actual aerial medical evacuation using military helicopters as a result of the eruption and subsequent lava flows in Hawaii County. U.S. Army medical evacuation helicopters stationed at Pohakuloa Training Area are participating in the exercise. The specially equipped helicopters provide an expanded rescue capability, including the ability to reach victims without having to land. During this period, the public may see military helicopters landing in the vicinity of Hilo Medical Center. Again, this is an exercise only, and the public should not be alarmed.
For media queries, contact:
Lt Col Charles Anthony
HING PAO
808-388-5986
charles.anthony@us.af.mil
Lt Col Wayde Minami
JTF 5-0 PAO
410-585-5007
jtf50paoplns@gmail.com
or
PAO.teamlava@gmail.com