Gov Sends National Guard To 40 Oregon Hospitals As They Struggle

BEAVERTON, OR — It was just about one month ago, that Gov. Brown stood before hundreds of Oregon National Guard members in a demobilization ceremony. It brought to an end what had been their second-longest domestic mission ever – helping out frontline workers in hospitals across the state as the hospitals struggled with COVID-19.

The longest mission had been helping out after Hurricane Katrina.

Last week, Brown called 500 of them back to duty as the omicron-driven surge of COVID-19 tightened its grip on the state.

On Wednesday, she more than doubled the deployment as hospitals around the state are facing staffing shortages and rising numbers of patients

"Thank you, once again, to our Guard members, their families, and their employers for this sacrifice and support," Brown said.

"As they step up yet again, I am asking all Oregonians to continue to do your part. Get vaccinated, get boosted, wear your masks, and stay home when you are sick."

Brown added 700 more National Guard members to the deployment. Many will be sent to around 2o hospitals in the metro area including OHSU, Legacy, Providence, and Adventist.

Once there, they will work in non-clinical support roles such as COVID testing support, laundry, Equipment runners, and custodial services.

The deployment will begin no later than January 18 and last as long as necessary.