(446th AW PA) - Working in subzero temperatures - check. Experiencing a ride on a dogsled - check. Bringing medical professionals and vital medical care and supplies to residents in remote villages in Alaska - priceless.

These were just some of the tasks aerial porters from the 86th Aerial Port Squadron at McChord Field accomplished during Operation Arctic Care. Based out of Kotzebue, Alaska, Operation Arctic Care is the largest recurring joint service medical readiness and logistics training exercise that provides humanitarian assistance to underserved American communities, like Ambler, Buckland and Kivalina, Alaska. For the first time, the Air Force Reserve Command directed this year's three-week mission, which ended April 26.

For 446th Airlift Wing aerial porters Tech. Sgts. Robin McVicker, Koyoung Craddock, and Jessie Escalera, and Staff Sgts. Michael Dunn and Russ Allen, the operation was an inspiring endeavor. The five aerial porters all said they would volunteer again for this mission, "in a heartbeat," because they know the supplies they moved went to residents who needed them and they would be put to good use, to improve the quality of their lives.

Allen, who is a corrections officer with the Pierce County Sheriff's Department, said the operation was particularly significant to him because it was his first deployment as a member of the Air Force Reserve since joining in 2008. The cargo technician with five years prior active-duty service said the mission also helped him gain perspective and not take things, such as food, water and basic medical care, for granted.

The joint venture included more than 280 military members and U. S. Public Health Commissioned Corps participants, consisting of medical teams, transport and support units from Guard, Reserve and active duty of the U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy. Reservist aerial porters were directly responsible for facilitating the movement of more than 78,000 pounds of cargo and more than 160 passengers during the entire mission.

At the end of the mission, medical professionals had successfully treated more than 7,800 Alaskan locals in 12 remote villages. Alaskans received general medical care, essential dental procedures, ophthalmology examinations and medical procedures. Several families were particularly grateful for the veterinary services the U.S. Armed Forces provided at the remote locations.

Visit the 446th AW's Fan for more photos of the 86th APS Airmen, in support of Operation Arctic Care.

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