National Guard Medical unit departs for European deployment

By Capt. Dylan Bradford

REISTERSTOWN, Md. – Approximately 70 Maryland Army National Soldiers assigned to the 104th Medical Company (Area Support) are deploying overseas in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve in Powidz, Poland.

Maj. Gen. Janeen L. Birckhead, adjutant general for Maryland, hosted the departure ceremony and spoke to the family members, friends, and fellow Guard members from the 58th Troop Command who came together at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation on Dec. 9, 2023 to bid farewell to the unit.

“I want to salute the families and loved ones,” said Birckhead. “The simple truth is that without you, we can do none of this.”

Maj. Randolph Nittoli, commander of the 104th MCAS, spoke to the Soldiers about how proud he was to lead them through their preparation for the deployment.

“This has been an aggressive training plan,” said Nittoli. “This unit has executed a complete training cycle in a matter of 14-months, and these Soldiers in front of me executed it flawlessly. I know that we are ready to go.”

In support of the U.S. European Command, the 104th MCAS will provide medical treatment services at a role II facility.

“We will be working in a clinical setting,” said Spc. Hannah Ulring, a combat medic with the 104th MCAS. “A lot of us are very excited about this, and I personally work in clinical medicine at my civilian job so I am excited to bring that experience with me.”

Role II facilities are equipped with a trauma section and a lab where patients can receive X-ray, blood, dental, combat, and operational stress control services.

“This will be my first deployment,” said Sgt. Lynette Atalo, a chemical, biological radiological, and nuclear specialist with the 104th MCAS. “This will be a great opportunity for me and I am very excited for that. While I am anxious about leaving my family behind, I know for a fact I will make it back to them.”

The unit will finalize their pre-mobilization training at Fort Cavazos, Texas, before heading overseas for the 12-month deployment.

“You are prepared, and I’m certain you will do us proud,” said Lt. Col. Benjamin Posil, commander of the 58th Troop Command. “For all of you taking on these duties, I salute you.”