Photo By Tech. Sgt. Sara Kolinski | A Soldier from the 126th Aviation Battalion helps administer COVID-19 tests to first...... read more read more
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Soldiers from the 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, Headquarters Company, and the 126th Aviation Battalion helped administer COVID-19 tests to first responders at a drive-thru testing facility, April 9, 2020, on the Big E fairgrounds, West Springfield, Massachusetts.
The testing facility, which was organized by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, Department of Fire Services, Quest Diagnostics, and other agencies tested first responders.
“It is currently only first responders because we have a limited amount of tests, and they’re on the front lines, so they’re a priority for the time being,” said Sgt. Nicholas Bearne, A Company, 3rd Battalion, 126th Aviation Black Hawk crew chief.
The tested individuals registered online and expect to get their results back digitally 48 hours after testing.
“It provides the first responders’ departments with confirmation if they have tested negative for COVID-19,” said Spc. Colin Fitzgerald, 26th MEB HHC air defense battle management systems operator. “Therefore their resources and their manpower can be restored fully to deal with their municipalities.”
Many agencies from across Massachusetts came together to make the testing go smoothly.
“It promotes interoperability which is crucial, and it helps so that when we get relieved other agencies can stand alone, and we can pass on this knowledge so that the flow remains smooth,” said Fitzgerald.
The Soldiers said they felt honored to give back to their communities and be a part of such a valuable mission.
“I grew up in Worcester, and I’ve known people from all over the state. Traveling all over the state and helping out different communities in towns that I’m familiar with and even towns I’ve never heard of before, it’s a good feeling,” said Fitzgerald.
| Date Taken: | 04.10.2020 |
| Date Posted: | 04.12.2020 12:48 |
| Story ID: | 367203 |
| Location: | WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS, US |
| Web Views: | 189 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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