Hundreds of people on Wednesday morning all wearing masks were cheering on healthcare workers that got on buses headed to New York City to fight on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis.  At least 50 medical staff will be spending a month at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

“They’re going into battle and they’re going to be working long hours under very dangerous circumstances. And they’re putting themselves at risk to save others," said Senator Thomas O'Mara.

Two buses full of professionals are going where the number of COVID-19 cases are the highest in the country.

“We wanted to be able to share our resources and our services with those that do need that support and this is why we went into medicine as well so we’re just really grateful to have the opportunity to serve," said Cayuga Medical Center Physician Louanne Giangreco.

“We look forward to welcoming you all back home safe and sound very soon. Be assured we will be with you every hour of every day in spirit," said Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton.

People waving on the convoy of buses filled with healthcare workers, and police, throughout the city of Ithaca.

“When America is challenged we come together as Americans and we support each other and we do not fail," said U.S. Representative Tom Reed.

They are the first group of its kind from upstate New York working in the country’s hotspot.