The Medical Holdover Unit Caring for Wounded Warriors

In 2003, the United States entered a war against terrorism. The decision was made to invade the country of Iraq and overthrow its dictator, Saddam Hussein. As Reserve and National Guard soldiers were sent overseas, units were mobilized to assist managing and training these units in preparation for deployment. On Ft Lewis, WA, the 2122nd Garrison Troop Support Brigade (GTSB) was mobilized for such purpose. Their mission was to provide logistical support for all mobilizing units, as well as providing the training for all individual tasks. As mobilized soldiers were processed through the Soldier Readiness Program (SRP), medical issues were identified. The Army made the decision that since the soldier had been mobilized, they would be provided medical care until they were either fit to fight, or be medically processed out of the military. Realizing a home unit was required to provide logistical and administrative assistance to these soldiers, the 2122nd GTSB was tasked with developing such a unit. From there, the Alpha Medical Holdover Company was established. In a couple small World War 2 barracks on North Fort Lewis were established as the new home for these soldiers. An officer and a couple NCOs were tasked with the management of the company. At first, only a few soldiers were placed into the unit. As units continued to process through Fort Lewis, and wounded soldiers began returning from the combat zone, the size of A Company grew rapidly. By the time April of 2004 had arrived, the company was populated by180 soldiers, a Company Commander, a First Sergeant, four Platoon Sergeants, and another dozen staff members.