Vermont Soldiers leave for North Macedonia Feb. 22 to assist in developing two potential natural disaster scenarios, with their focus on planning and logistical issues faced in a real-world crisis.

The development process will occur next week, with subsequent supporting events scheduled over the year.

“North Macedonia is currently operating a NATO Role 2 medical facility that supports the Balkan Region in the event of a natural disaster,” said Maj. Joe Phelan, commander, Company C (Medical), 186th Brigade Support Battalion. “We are going to share our best practices with the North Macedonians and receive briefs on their operating procedures – it’s another great opportunity for us to learn from one another and mutually build our readiness.”

A Role 2 consists of advanced damage control resuscitation and surgery provided by small, mobile, forward-positioned medical facilities and surgical teams. Role 2 has the capability to provide packed blood products, limited x-ray, laboratory, dental support, and combat and operational stress control. C MED is the role 2 medical facility for the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat (Mountain).

North Macedonia works frequently with the Vermont National Guard as part of the State Partnership Program. Vermont and North Macedonia have been partners for 25 years. Vermont is also partnered with Senegal.