Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and Pennsylvania National Guard officials have jointly hosted a mass casualty simulation and was the inaugural class of the new Hershey Trauma, Readiness, Education and Training Program.

The training program is designed to prepare National Guard members for deployment by immersing them in real-world medical scenarios, the program enhances their ability to provide critical care under pressure. Participants will train alongside staff in Milton S. Hershey Medical Center’s Level 1 Trauma Center, gaining hands-on experience in advanced medical techniques and procedures.

“We are honored to play a role in equipping National Guard members with the skills they need to respond effectively in emergencies and combat zones,” said Don McKenna, president of Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. “Our expertise in trauma care, combined with a shared commitment to community service, makes this partnership a perfect fit to support the readiness and effectiveness of the National Guard.”

The training concluded with a realistic mass casualty simulation, with Life Lion team members landed on and assisted the loading of simulated patients, demonstrating the role of air medical evacuation in major emergency situations.

“Trauma training is a critical part of ensuring the readiness of military medical providers for combat casualty care,” said Maj. Gen. Lisa Hou, director, Office of the Joint Surgeon General, National Guard Bureau. “We are excited to expand the opportunities for our National Guard providers to participate in premier trauma training at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the only Level 1 trauma center for both children and adults in Pennsylvania.”