18th MDG supports Team Kadena during readiness inspection Published Oct. 23, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Hailey Davis 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- As tensions rise during phase one of a readiness inspection, the 18th Medical Support Squadron works diligently to prepare Kadena's Airmen for a simulated deployment. "Our 18th MDSS personnel are responsible for medically clearing all deploying forces," explained Master Sgt. Michael Daniel, 18th MDSS medical readiness flight chief. By assisting with the deployment line, said Daniel, medical personnel aid as a last line of defense in order to make sure Kadena Airmen are physically fit and ready to go during real world contingencies. Units within the 18th Medical Group, such as medical readiness, the lab and pharmacy, help medically qualify Airmen to deploy and are in charge of reviewing, clearing, and checking more than 900 medical records. The staff from the 18th Dental Squadron and Mental Health clinic also ensure AIrmen are good to go. "Our mission is to proactively deliver safe, seamless health services to Team Kadena," said Lt. Col. James Smith, 18th MDSS commander. Not only does the squadron deliver health services, but they also help keep Kadena Airmen healthy both mentally and physically. "We keep the Kadena population medically healthy in order to accomplish the overall mission," said Smith. "Fight tonight, win tomorrow." The 18th MDSS assists with the deployment lines by making sure each Airman is up to date on their immunizations and labs, and ensures that their public health assessment is "good to go." If Airmen require a vaccine, depending on their deployed location, the Immunizations section can then handle the situation by providing the proper vaccines. During phase two, the colonel said the focus of his unit changes. "Our focus during phase two is to protect our infrastructure and medical resources," Smith said. "We also evaluate and treat people who are injured in order to return them to the fight."