CHARLOTTE, N.C. - A North Carolina National Guardsman has been tapped to help construct a medical system for the new U.S. Africa Command.
Air Force Maj. Douglas T. Simons, a medical service corps officer from the 156th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, has been assigned as AFRICOM's medical plans and operations officer beginning March 1.
AFRICOM, a newly formed Department of Defense regional military headquarters, was declared a fully unified command Oct. 1, 2008. Its purpose is to support efforts that enhance stability and security in a way that promotes peace and mitigates critical humanitarian needs.
"We have the opportunity, vision and determination to redefine how the U.S. military cooperates with and complements the efforts of its U.S., international and non-governmental partners in Africa," Gen. William "Kip" Ward, the AFRICOM commander said in an online dialogue.
Simons' primary responsibilities will be to devise medical plans for AFRICOM forces in support of disaster relief and humanitarian missions and provide medical expertise on supporting contingencies in Africa.
"I will provide real-time information to active duty aeromedical evacuation responders about what the Air National Guard capability is going to be during a contingency," he said.
Col. Tony McMillan, the 145th Airlift Wing's commander, said Simons' involvement is a further indication of the ever-increasing, ever-deepening contribution being made by the Guard in daily DoD operations world-wide.
"The footprint being made by the North Carolina National Guard on America's global mission is certainly enhanced by Maj. Simons' high profile contribution to AFRICOM operations."
Simons, who has deployed twice to Afghanistan and once to Iraq, said he looks forward to the opportunity as a chance to further develop his organizational and leadership abilities.
Simons, who is leaving his legal practice to take on this new role, has demonstrated in the past that he is willing to take on any new challenge.
After being medically evacuated from Afghanistan, Maj. Carl Hamilton, a fellow medical service corps officer from the 156th AES, said Simons' first words to him were: "So, what's our next mission? I'll be ready as soon as the medics clear me and my wife calms down."
Hamilton says his passion for the mission shows in his actions, his desire to be involved at all levels, and an attitude that reflects his love for what he does.
"The quality of his work … helped place him in the position," said McMillan. "As he continues to perform at the high standards he is known for, his work helps to spread the already brilliant reputation of the North Carolina Air National Guard throughout the DoD and the world.
"His work is symbolic of the great job our Airmen do responding to forest fires, hurricanes, floods and military contingencies. We are proud of his (success), and I am sure we will be more proud of his achievements in his new role."