By Maj. Kevin Bass
BEIRUT, Lebanon – More than 45 representatives from the Lebanese Armed Forces attended a Field Preventive Medicine Seminar with Third Army here, May 31- June 4.
The seminar, which was the third of four exchanges, was designed to provide an overview of preventive medicine practices and disease surveillance concepts to enhance Lebanese field preventive medicine and public health practices and processes.
“These seminars are the centerpiece for fostering strong relationships and interoperability with our Lebanese partners,” said Col Dennis Brown, Deputy Surgeon, Third Army/ U.S. Army Central. “Through our discussions and exchange of ideas and experiences, both organizations gained valuable insight into how each other operate. The Lebanese were remarkably warm and hospitable hosts, and their medical personnel were incredibly eager to learn and share ideas,” he added.
During the seminar, Soldiers from Third Army and the LAF discussed a variety of topics, which included medical threats to field forces, arthropods and rodent control, water quality and food service in the field.
In addition to providing a venue for U.S. and Lebanese military medical professionals to exchange information, share personal experiences and develop best practices as it relates to preventive medicine and disease surveillance, the seminar also was instrumental in developing and promoting continued medical security cooperation efforts with the LAF, and assisting them with developing long-term sustainable medical capacity to support their armed forces.
“This engagement was immensely successful as it afforded us the opportunity to share ideas with our Lebanese counterparts, learn about their culture and forge strong friendships,” said Brown.