In a demonstration of rapid response on July 25, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) conducted two life-saving medical evacuation (medevac) operations in Region 8, airlifting patients in urgent need of maternal care from the hinterland communities of Taruka and Mahdia.
The first mission responded to a maternal emergency involving a 24-year-old woman in Taruka, a remote village without a serviceable airstrip. Given the terrain and lack of access by road or fixed-wing aircraft, the GDF Air Corps deployed a helicopter to extract the patient.
Soon after, a second mission was carried out in Mahdia, where a 31-year-old woman with a high-risk pregnancy required advanced medical attention. The GDF acted swiftly to ensure timely transport to a regional facility equipped to manage such cases.
Both operations were executed by a seasoned flight crew comprising Lieutenant Colonel Anson Weekes, Captain Neil Asregado, and a third crew member. Medical escort was provided by a Government of Guyana medical doctor and GDF Medic, Sheena Waithe, who ensured patient stability throughout the flights.
The patients were successfully handed over to healthcare teams and are now receiving the necessary care.
The Guyana Defence Force continues to uphold its commitment to national service, responding wherever duty calls, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
