Honoring a Hero with Life-Saving Innovation
In the realm of medical innovation, Project Lavoy stands as a tribute to the memory and service of Tech. Sgt. Zachary Lavoy who was a medical operations flight chief with Kadena’s 1st Special Operations Squadron. “Lavoy was the first medic with extensive experience in field care and transfusions to respond when the project team, then called The Contingency Blood Program, sought expert support.” Maj. Geoffrey Johnston, Prosthodontist USAF.
On November 29, 2023, tragedy struck during a routine training mission off the shore of Yakushima Island, Japan, involving the US Air Force’s Gundam 22 aircraft. This aircraft, operated by Air Force Special Operations Command, was involved in a mishap that resulted in the loss of eight brave souls.
The Vision: Advancing Medical Care
Project Lavoy represents a collaborative effort among the USAF and Kadena Medical Innovators who were deeply influenced by Zachary Lavoy’s dedication and spirit with Blood Transfusion Technology. The project enables medics to “collect blood and perform transfusions as quickly as possible as casualties occur…Blood loss accounted for 80% of deaths during the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq….Project Lavoy adds equipment to the joint first aid kit already carried by Air Force medics, allowing them to perform blood transfusions in the field….” www.stripes.com
A Legacy of Innovation from the USAF
Project Lavoy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of one individual’s dedication and the power of collaboration in the medical field. Through honoring Tech. Sgt. Zachary Lavoy’s memory, Kadena Medical Innovators not only celebrates his life but also ensures that his spirit continues to inspire innovation in healthcare.
In the same article Johnston says, “Our medics need to be able to perform this time sensitive life-saving task within the “golden hour”, and Project Lavoy makes it easier to make that timeline”.
The Chinook Medical Gear family sends our heartfelt condolences to the families and colleagues of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate event.