The Evolution and Future of Marine Corps Medical Evacuation and Casualty Evacuation Operations
Abstract
This paper examines how Marine Corps rotary wing aviation is lacking in its ability to conduct medical support helicopter operations. As an example, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Marine Corps rotary wing aviation was quite successful in executing medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) missions. However, the primary reason for this is that various aspects of the operating environment in Iraq made such missions relatively easy in comparison to other areas of operation, such as Afghanistan. Ultimately, Army and Air Force units have proven much more capable and successful in Afghanistan. As America's "force in readiness," the Marine Corps is expected to deploy all over the world and conduct operations in any environment. Yet, its aviation component is not suited to conduct the full spectrum of medical support helicopter operations. Changes must be made to its organization, training, equipment, and doctrine for the Marine Corps to be successful in executing such missions in conflict zones around the world.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 16, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA600817
Entities
People
- Brian P. Santucci
Organizations
- Marine Corps University