MONROVIA, Liberia – In October, the U.S. Army National Guard members from Michigan provided emergency medicine mentorship at 14 Military Hospital. This exchange is part of the U.S. Embassy’s investment in security assistance for Liberia, helping to rebuild the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL)’s capabilities and enhance regional security.
The Michigan National Guard remains Liberia’s committed state partner. This partnership improves the AFL’s capabilities by regularly exchanging best practices and providing opportunities to participate in multinational exercises via Michigan National Guard sponsorship.
Three members of the Michigan National Guard – Capt. Matthew Gomberg, Staff Sgt. James Dewitt, and Sgt. Gustavo Popmonroy – spent two weeks at 14 Military Hospital to help improve emergency room medical skills. They provided training and mentorship to the staff for responding to a variety of adult and pediatric emergencies.
Capt. Gomberg worked in the emergency room to mentor providers and nurses, develop and reinforce the use of a triage system, and empower nurses to make critical decisions in time-sensitive patient care. Staff Sgt. Dewitt and Sgt. Popmonroy trained AFL medics in patient stabilization, basic life support and emergency pediatric care.
The U.S. Government has trained more than 2,000 AFL personnel (civilian and military combined), assisting the Government of Liberia in its efforts to build and maintain an apolitical and professional military force. Providing emergency medicine mentorship is part of this ongoing effort. We are in the business of building a future together, and a well-funded and trained military is essential for Liberia and the region’s long-term stability.