Indiana National Guard receives patient transport training to fight COVID-19

FRANKLIN, Ind. – Indiana National Guard troops from the 38th Infantry Division took part in patient transport training at the Johnson County Armory on April 16. The exercise prepared guardsmen and women to assist the Indiana State Department of Health and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

“By working with the civilian hospitals and state agencies it really shows that we as National Guard soldiers are in support of the community and the state of Indiana,” said 2nd Lt. Ryan Ball, medical service officer with the 113th Brigade Support Battalion.

The troops will be assisting with patient transport missions supported by the 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry, 152nd Cavalry, and 163rd Field Artillery, 2nd Battalion, 152nd Infantry, and the 113th Brigade Support Battalion.

The training included proper wearing techniques and understanding of personal protective equipment, self-decontamination procedures, and knowledge of what kind of PPE scenarios require.

“This training is extremely important because it is preparation for an actual pandemic by understanding PPE requirements and [soldiers] preventing infection to themselves and others,” said Ball.

Soldiers and airmen in the Indiana National Guard consistently train to keep themselves ready to answer the call in times of need.