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News | April 9, 2020

DLA Disposition Services keeps century of healing spirit moving forward

By DLA Disposition Services Public Affairs DLA Disposition Services

For nearly 110 years, the building know today as the Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center has been part of the Battle Creek, Michigan, skyline.

The building has a long history of service and with the outbreak of COVID-19, the echoes of that history are now coming to light. At the start of the 20th Century the building was known locally as “The Sans.” It was a place of healing.

Dr. John H. Kellogg with a cockatoo on his shoulder.
Dr. John H. Kellogg of Battle Creek, Michigan published his treatments to combat the influenza pandemic of 1918.
Dr. John H. Kellogg with a cockatoo on his shoulder.
Dr. John H. Kellogg
Dr. John H. Kellogg of Battle Creek, Michigan published his treatments to combat the influenza pandemic of 1918.
Photo By: Jeff Landenberger
VIRIN: 200409-O-D0441-284
 

 
When the 1918 influenza pandemic spread around the planet it was Dr. John H. Kellogg writings from “The Sans” that offered advice on treatment during the pandemic. The doctor said in part to drink plenty of liquids, rest and to keep distance from others. He also offered advice on how to treat the fever.
 
Today in the face of a new pandemic, the current residents of the building are now taking up the torch from Dr. Kellogg to help.
 
The DLA Disposition Services team is not offering medical advice, they are distributing excess military equipment to help first responders and medical personnel meet the rising need.
 
This is not a new mission, when natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy hit or rivers flood a community or wildfires rage out of control, first responders often use equipment they have attained from DLA Disposition Services to respond to the call.
Two former military trucks drive on a road with flood water covering it.
Two former military vehicles issued out by DLA Disposition Services to different agencies operated together to rescue three people and two dogs from floods and mudslides. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Humvee follows the five-ton truck operated by the Washington State Department of Fish and Game. Photo provided by Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Washington State.
Two former military trucks drive on a road with flood water covering it.
Rescue operations
Two former military vehicles issued out by DLA Disposition Services to different agencies operated together to rescue three people and two dogs from floods and mudslides. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Humvee follows the five-ton truck operated by the Washington State Department of Fish and Game. Photo provided by Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Washington State.
Photo By: Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Washington state
VIRIN: 200212-O-DO441-005
 

 
Now former military trucks are moving various supplies including excess tents, masks and medical equipment that are being used in and around hospitals, many of which were acquired from DLA Disposition Services.