About this Unit
The 23rd Medical Squadron Expeditionary Support (23rd MSES) Medical Unit, based in Rome, NY, is a key Air Force Reserve medical unit specializing in providing expeditionary medical support and healthcare services. Activated to support both peacetime and contingency operations, the 23rd MSES has been integral in training and readiness exercises, ensuring rapid deployment capabilities for global operations. The unit’s personnel have participated in humanitarian missions, disaster response, and joint exercises with other branches, enhancing interoperability and medical proficiency. Through its commitment to excellence, the 23rd MSES Medical Unit upholds a proud tradition of service, supporting both military personnel and civilian communities when called upon.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Cold War: The 23rd Medical Service Squadron (MSES) was originally established during the Cold War era to provide rapid medical support for Air Force operations connected to the Strategic Air Command in upstate New York.
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Support to Griffiss Air Force Base: Stationed at Rome, NY, the 23rd MSES played a critical role in supporting the personnel and families of Griffiss Air Force Base, especially when the base was a hub for B-52 bombers and later, electronic warfare units.
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Disaster Response: The unit was frequently called upon for disaster and emergency response, including providing medical aid during severe winter storms that often struck central New York.
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Desert Shield/Desert Storm: Members of the 23rd MSES deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, providing frontline medical care to deployed Air Force personnel.
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Innovator in Field Medicine: The unit was known for pioneering new methods in field medicine, including rapid deployment of mobile medical teams and early adoption of telemedicine technologies.
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Humanitarian Missions: Aside from combat operations, the 23rd MSES regularly participated in humanitarian missions, offering medical support during joint exercises with NATO allies and in local community outreach programs.
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Base Closure and Transition: Following the closure of Griffiss AFB in 1995 under the BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) process, members of the 23rd MSES were instrumental in the smooth transition and continued support to remaining Department of Defense operations in Rome, NY.
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Medical Training Excellence: The 23rd MSES was recognized for its rigorous medical training programs, regularly hosting joint exercises and serving as a training ground for Air Force medics across the Northeast.
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Support to Rome Laboratory: When Griffiss AFB transitioned to Rome Laboratory (now the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate), the unit continued to provide crucial medical support to civilian and military scientists.
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Legacy of Service: Though the unit’s size and mission have changed over time, the 23rd MSES is remembered for its adaptability, professionalism, and decades-long commitment to the health and welfare of military personnel in central New York.
