HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. — A deployment send-off ceremony for more than 70 Soldiers from the 182nd Medical Company Area Support, Massachusetts Army National Guard was held at Alden Hall at Worcester Polytechnic Institute on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
The Soldiers will deploy to Europe in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts National Guard, and unit leadership addressed the Soldiers and their families about the importance of their mission, the importance of support from home and their preparations for deployment.
“We will soon mark the 250th Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. On that day, the world witnessed the birth of America’s brave spirit,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Today, the Massachusetts National Guard carries forward this same spirit, which has defined our nation since its very inception, as they stand ready to defend our freedom and protect our communities. As the 182nd Medical Company Area Support embarks on their overseas mission, they continue to reflect the ideals of those who fought for our independence, ensuring that legacy of service and sacrifice continues to thrive in the face of any challenge. I offer my deepest gratitude for their steadfast commitment and best wishes for a safe deployment.”
“As the daughter of a Navy vet and member of a military family, it is an honor to join the Soldiers and their loved ones for the ceremonial send-off of the 182nd Medical Company Area Support as they deploy overseas in service to our nation,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Massachusetts is proud to lead the nation in veterans services, and we remain deeply committed to welcoming you home with strong, accessible support. We are grateful for your service and look forward to your safe return.”
“Your mission to assist our allies, ensuring we stand united in defending freedom and global security is vital for future generations,” said Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, The Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard. “The Soldiers of the 182nd Medical Company Area Support are prepared to deploy today because of their dedication to their profession, individual readiness, and their commitment to the welfare of both the Commonwealth and our nation. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our families. Your contributions to your Soldiers’ success are just as vital as those in uniform, and it’s essential that you are recognized for your vital role.”
The unit is deploying to the US European Command to provide Health Service Support and Force Health Protection Role One and Role Two medical services in Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.
“It is truly an honor to be leading the unit during this deployment, we’ve put in the work, built a great team and we are ready for this mission,” said Maj. James F. Hogan, commander 182nd Medical Company Area Support. “We’re heading out in support of our NATO partners for Operation Atlantic Resolve, we are ambassadors of the US Army, the National Guard, and the state of Massachusetts. We will be ready to answer the call no matter challenge and have I have full faith that we are prepared for it all.”
Atlantic Resolve provides rotational deployments of combat credible forces to Europe to show the nations commitment to NATO while building readiness, increasing interoperability and enhancing the bonds between all partner militaries.
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ABOUT THE 182ND MEDICAL COMPANY AREA SUPPORT: The 182nd MCAS is one of the oldest medical units in the United States Army, tracing its lineage to the Ambulance Corps of the 2nd Brigade of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia which was formed in 1885. The unit has been restructured several times and has supported key operations in World War I and World War II, participating in both European and Pacific campaigns. The unit has received the Presidential unit Citation and Meritorious Unit Commendations.