U.S. Air Force medical personnel assigned to the 482nd Medical Squadron and the 944th Aeromedical Staging Squadron teamed up with Salvadoran healthcare professionals at San Bartolo National Hospital, June 16-27, to deliver internal medicine care and exchange clinical expertise in support of AMISTAD 2025.
Throughout the mission, U.S. providers worked side-by-side with local doctors, nurses, and students to manage patients in a resource-constrained environment. The collaboration not only enhanced medical readiness but also highlighted the shared commitment to patient care and professional development across both nations.
“The patients have shown a lot of gratitude,” said U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Abhishek Kumar, 482nd Medical Squadron flight surgeon. “They’re thankful for the care they’re receiving, and it’s been really meaningful to see them improving and healing.”
While U.S. medics shared techniques and supported daily operations, they also gained a deeper appreciation for how effectively local teams deliver care despite limited resources.
“They’re all very dedicated and intelligent,” Lt. Col. Kumar added. “They make the best use of what they have and are able to treat a wide variety of cases despite limitations in medications and supplies. It’s impressive to see how well they carry out their mission here.”
One of the mission’s key strengths was the focus on cultural and professional exchange. By working directly in Salvadoran hospitals, U.S. personnel could adapt, teach, and learn in real time — strengthening not only their clinical flexibility but their understanding of other countries’ challenges.
“I want people to know that we came here to help to the best of our ability,” said U.S. Air Force First Lieutenant Christopher Wilmoth, 482nd Medical Squadron registered nurse. “It’s been rewarding to work with the community here and support them however we can.”
Through shared responsibilities and day-to-day cooperation, the teams deepened trust and built the kind of interoperability that defines successful global partnerships.
Simulated combat
As part of AMISTAD, U.S. and Salvadoran medical personnel also took part in a Tactical Combat Casualty Care exercise, training together to improve their readiness and cooperation. The training focused on life-saving medical procedures under combat conditions, including applying tourniquets, dressing wounds, and performing tactical movements while treating casualties.
The exercise culminated in a simulated convoy attack where Salvadoran forces effectively responded to casualties, demonstrating their ability to quickly provide care and move patients to safety for evacuation.
The successful collaboration highlighted the participants’ ability to overcome a language barrier through shared dedication to improving their skills for real-world emergencies.
Missions like AMISTAD 2025 continue to ensure U.S. and partner nations’ medics are prepared to operate together wherever and whenever care is needed.
