MDDF Medical Support is Critical for the Successful EagleMan Triathlon

By MAJ (MDDF) Stephen Rice
Maryland Defense Force Public Affairs
10 June 2013

The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) provided onsite medical support for the nearly 3,000 participants in the EnduraFit Ironman 70.3 EagleMan Triathlon that took place on June 9, 2013 in Cambridge, Maryland. This competition at Great Marsh Park featured a 1.2 mile swim, followed by a 56 mile bike ride. After the bike ride, the race ended with a 13.1 mile run. This competition was sanctioned by USA Triathlon (USAT) and organizers followed the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) rules.

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Minken updates his team, Lt. Col. (MDDF) James Ross, Lt. Col. David Roop and CW5 Gary Miconi

In order to support this major event, the MDDF activated Task Force Terrapin under the command of Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Stanley Minken. Task Force Terrapin successfully utilized various MDDF assets from the 121st Engineer Regiment, the 10th Medical Regiment and other units to carry out this important mission. A fully staffed MDDF “mobile hospital” was erected and staffed for the duration of the competition with support from the Delmarva Regional Health Care Mutual Aid Group. Four fully staffed medical aid stations were also staffed by MDDF personnel along the race route.

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Stanley Minken briefs Maj. Gen. James Adkins, the Adjutant General of Maryland

The MDDF medical personnel were busy during each phase of the competition and successfully treated a total of 128 tri-athletes throughout the day. The MDDF medical staff also coordinated the safe transport of 9 tri-athletes to Dorchester General Hospital for follow-up medical care. In total, nearly 2,000 volunteer man hours were provided by MDDF personnel.

Brig. Gen. (MDDF) Minken commented that, “Supporting this event helped the athletes and also helped our personnel get valuable experience as we prepare to serve the citizens of Maryland during an emergency or disaster situation.” “Task Force Terrapin performed extremely well and the lessons we learned will make our future service delivery even better.”

The Maryland Defense Force (MDDF) is the State’s uniformed volunteer military unit providing professional and technical assistance to the Maryland Military Department. Established in 1917, the MDDF consists of nearly 450 personnel who perform legal, engineering, finance, medical, chaplain, field support and ceremonial services for the State of Maryland. For more information: www.mddf.maryland.gov.