Tennessee Guardsmen have administered over 500K virus tests

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee National Guard has administered over 500,000 COVID-19 tests to citizens throughout Tennessee, according to a news release.

The Guard first began helping with the fight against COVID-19 in March, when Gov. Bill Lee requested 250 soldiers and airmen to help the Department of Health operate drive-thru rural testing sites. Over time, the number of guardsmen assisting with the project has grown to 500, and their mission has expanded as well, according to the release.

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Activated guardsmen are now helping provide testing at long-term care facilities, county and state corrections facilities, public housing complexes, hot-spot areas, and other locations across the state.

The Guard reached the 500,000-test milestone last week and is continuing to provide free testing to any Tennessean who may need it.

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