As the Army continues to evolve, Soldiers train to meet new standards to better serve the joint force capability and provide the credible land-combat power necessary for modern deterrence and decisive victory.

The 422nd Medical Detachment, Veterinary Services, is attending Exercise Global Medic, which provides robust opportunities for military personnel to improve their skills in realistic training environments. Conducted by the Medical Readiness and Training Command, Global Medic plays a vital role in sustaining the readiness and modernization of the force. U.S. Army Reserve members Capt. Gaby Schrader, Sgt. Trevor McCarson and Spc. Jaime Casiano reported to Fort McCoy to facilitate multiple training lanes to medical professionals within the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army.

As most of the service members in attendance typically operate and work with human beings, the MDVS introduced a non-human medical training aid (often referred to as a “robot dog”). The robot dog has the capability to simulate real-life scenarios in the event of a military working dog casualty.

“As veterinarians, we are always concerned about public health,” says Schrader. “We do recognize that many of the diseases and viruses that infect humans do come from animals and it takes on a new role when you work with Soldiers and Sailors who are concerned about their health.”

The Army is transforming through the integration of next-generation technologies such as the robot dog training aid and warfighting concepts across the force to enhance our ability to compete globally, deter adversaries and win on all-domain battlefields in an era of strategic competition.