The Gateway

I provide medical support during convoy operations throughout Baghdad, Iraq. The Rough Riders provide transportation support and mounted security for coalition and local dignitaries. The cavalry detachment dates back to Theodore Roosevelt and the famous charge up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War.

In addition to the convoy support, I lead a four-person independent aid station, filling the role typically held by a physician assistant. I review and sign medical notes, as well as prescribe medications. I also complete all of the administrative tasks.

This is my third deployment to Iraq. I first deployed in 2003 with the 62nd Medical Brigade and later attached to the 1st Marine Division during the invasion of Iraq. During 2004 and 2005, I supported the Special Forces units on the Iran boarder. Shortly after I joined the Reserves in April, I attached to the Rough Riders.

While this is not my first deployment to Iraq, it is the first time using the MC4 system. I first learned about the system and secured training for my team while in Kuwait for Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (RSO&I). When we fell in on our location, the handoff was disorganized. The departing medics didn’t know about MC4 systems.

Since we don’t have MC4 personnel on site, I set up the equipment with phone assistance from MC4’s deployed technical staff. Use of MC4 helps my team to provide more efficient care for the unit. In July, I received access to the Theater Medical Data Store (TMDS). Now, I see all of the theater records for my Soldiers, which is beneficial for generating line of duty reports.

Since embarking on the use and support of MC4 systems in my aid station, I’ve leveraged my experience to assist another unit that deployed in July. They arrived with MC4 equipment and had trouble connecting to the network. I worked with the unit and helped them to avoid many of the pitfalls that I experienced.

Today, when the aid station experiences systems problems, I’m contacted for assistance. I help the unit as much as I can. We’re one team. I don’t mind assisting their efforts as long as I have the time and it doesn’t impact my mission.

I’ve spent a lot of time throughout this deployment setting up systems and preparing the next unit for success. I don’t want the next group to experience what I did when we arrived in theater.

Spc. Dustin Baldwin, Senior Medic, Rough Riders, United States Forces-Iraq Convoy Operations, Forward Operating Base Prosperity, Iraq