The Gateway

In September 2010, the 4th Brigade Combat Team (BCT), 1st Armored Division (AD) began using MC4 systems in our garrison aid stations at Fort Bliss, Texas. The experience of setting up and using the digital tools to support the medical logistics (MEDLOG) mission paid dividends when we conducted a two-week training rotation earlier this year at the National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, Calf. We were the first unit to connect to the DMLSS server at Weed Army Community Hospital (WACH) at Fort Irwin resulting in the first end-to-end digital supply chain at NTC.

Preparation for the field exercise began weeks before the start of the mission. Medical units for the 4th BCT met regularly to discuss the MEDLOG portion of the exercise. Every level of the organization understood the need for connectivity while out in the field since the BCT would be dispersed to different forward operating bases (FOBs).

By including Warrant Officer Gerardorome Marquez, officer in charge of the Sustainment Automation Support Management Office for the 4th BCT, 1st AD and his team in the planning phase, level 1 customers used wireless systems [combat service support automated information systems interface (CAISI)] to connect to the local very small aperture terminal (VSAT) at each FOB. This option enabled level 1 customers to transmit their orders to the level II brigade medical supply office (BMSO). Once processed, the BMSO forwarded the orders via satellite to the DMLSS server at WACH.

We encountered some roadblocks due to user errors and technical problems before we were fully operational. Once resolved, the first orders transmitted during the third day of the exercise. While some customers were able to troubleshoot problems, others required me to provide on-site support to resolve systems issues.

The experience at NTC helped us to pinpoint areas where we need to improve before we deploy later this year. The main objective is for the customers to set up their own systems without causing systems errors in the process. We'll help them to be self-reliant. When the brigade deploys to theater, it could be difficult for someone from my office to travel for on-site support just to get a customer's system operational.

1st Lt. Michael Cooper, Officer in Charge, Brigade Medical Supply Office, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division