Panelists Speak at the Peer-to-Peer Medical Exchange as Part of San Francisco Fleet Week 2023

SAN FRANCISCO – A peer-to-peer medical exchange seminar was hosted to explore the challenges associated with medical response during mass casualty situations with the goal of maintaining international solidarity and support as part of the 42nd annual San Francisco Fleet Week (SFFW), Oct. 4.

The medical exchange brings together experts from diverse backgrounds, including both military and civilian, providing them with the opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences.

“We’re looking to try to shift the focus of fleet week from the usual Defense Support of Civil Authorities talk to showcasing what the defense department is actually doing for you and why it's important” said Vice Adm. Michael Boyle, commander of Third Fleet.

The speakers discussed the critical need for support and cooperation during times of crisis or anywhere with mass casualties. Not just between local or state assets between the military but also with international partners as well.

“When I first got to Syria there was a chilling saying that killing a doctor was like killing a 100 soldiers,” said Samer Attar, MD, associate professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern Medicine. “When you kill a doctor; you kill a nurse; or you blow up an ambulance, you're not just killing that individual or group of individuals. You're taking away hope from a community. You're taking away that community's ability to heal and endure."

SFFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America’s sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of San Francisco and its surrounding areas.