and designated as the 520th TAML (Forward). Approximately 1-2 weeks prior to deployment, the final members of the 10-member team were officially assigned to the TAML (Forward). At the same time, new equipment such as computers and laboratory and environmental testing equipment was received. The unit prepared for deployment by receiving winter driving classes, as well as training on the assembly and disassembly of temper tents.

Members of the 520th TAML (Forward) left Aberdeen Proving Grounds on 30 January 1996, and then left CONUS from McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey on 31 January 1996. They flew into Frankfurt and then were bussed into Heidelberg. The unit went through the Situational Training Exercise (STX) at Hohenfels, which trained members on dealing with the media and mine awareness. The 520thTAML was also sent to Landstuhl, Germany, to make contacts with medical colleagues. They left Germany on 14 February 1996, and arrived at the Intermediate Support Base (ISB) Taszar, Hungary, where they stayed for a few days. The unit finally arrived at Tuzla, Bosnia, on 17 February 1996. On that date, unit members waited 6 hours to be bussed to Camp Bedrock, Bosnia.

The 520th TAML found very muddy conditions and wooden burn-out latrines at Camp Bedrock. Living tents were erected in snow and rain, during which soldiers were required to wear full "battle rattle" (personal weapon, load-bearing equipment, and protective masks). Just before a visit from First Lady Hillary Clinton in March 1996, boardwalks were built and several tons of gravel were brought into camp to alleviate part