Helicopter rescue is nothing new, but because of the number of organizations involved, emergency responders constantly undergo training.

One of two San Diego County Mercy Air air-ambulances landed behind Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton Feb. 4, to conduct refresher training alongside Camp Pendleton’s Fire and Emergency Services. Training consisted of proper emergency procedures and teamwork.

“This vital training allows us to understand the other agencies’ capabilities and work as a team,” said Matt W. Rios, paramedic, FES, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, and former Mercy Air responder. “Training now will save lives later.”

More than 130 of Pendleton’s emergency responders toured the Eurocopter 135P2 that flew in from Palomar Airport. Pendleton responders reviewed quick transport and life-support strategies with the three-man, air ambulance crew.

Emergency helicopters can support intensive-care and critical-care patients, and are equipped with rear-opening hatches to allow for easier stretcher access.

“Just a few weeks ago, we saved a 2 year old’s life (on base),” said Rios. “We wouldn’t have been able to save her without the medical support that Mercy Air provides.

Past air-response incidents on base have varied from humvee rollovers to choking children, said Jeff L. Emery, air-ambulance pilot, Mercy Air, San Diego County. With the closest trauma centers in Escondido and Riverside, serious injuries on Pendleton require medical air support.

Air-ambulance crews are trained in several areas of medicine and are capable of handling burns, cardiac complications, pediatric issues, respiratory problems and general trauma.

Unlike a ground ambulance, the inside of a Mercy Air helicopter is like a mini emergency room, said Chris A. Braun, paramedic, FES, MCB and Riverside native. “Certified responders, who can provide care for the patient while being transported in the air, make up the crew of the aircraft."

Helicopter medical teams usually consist of a pilot, registered nurse and certified paramedic. Mercy Air operates the only full-time, air ambulances based in the county and is depended on by every hospital in the region.

“This job is rewarding in so many ways,” said Emery, a retired Marine major, who served 23 years as a pilot for the Corps. “Not only am I protecting my community, I am able to serve my country by caring for the families of deployed Marines.”

Covering areas across Southern California makes each day a new experience for the crew.

“Everyday is a different day and a new opportunity,” said Rios. “I am fortunate enough to go home at night with the feeling that I made a difference.”

The base utilizes helicopter medical-response teams more than 100 times a year, said Braun. Mercy Air responded to four incidents alone last week ensuring medical emergencies on base have all the necessary equipment.

The collaboration between Mercy Air and base medical responders will continue to grow and support each other, he said.