MINOT, N.D., - A North Dakota Air National Guard medical team has been named the best among Air Guard medical units in the Air Force Global Strike Command.
The 219th Security Forces Squadron medical team, of Minot, N.D., received the 2010 Air Force Global Strike Command Lt. Gen. George C. Schafer Trophy for Outstanding Air National Guard Medical Unit of the Year. They will now go on to compete for the Air Force-wide title.
“I want to thank you for your exceptional leadership and for the hard work and sacrifices made by your team towards achieving this milestone!" said Col. Mark A. Koeniger, command surgeon, in a letter announcing the award. "This accomplishment reflects great credit upon your unit and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Air Force Medical Service.”
The Air Force’s 5th Medical Group, which is based at Minot Air Force Base, nominated the 219th for the award.
“It’s an honor for our medical team to be recognized by Air Force Global Strike Command for this award,” said Lt. Col. Tad Schauer, 219th Security Forces Squadron commander. “Our medical personnel have performed exemplary service since the squadron was activated in 2008. They implemented a first-of-its-kind Personnel Reliability Program, ensuring the reliability of traditional Guardsmen to perform nuclear security operations. Additionally, they have taken on medical procedures not previously offered at the base, resulting in a significant cost savings.”
Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, also offered praise.
“I’m proud of all that our medical personnel in Minot have accomplished and pleased that the 5th Medical Group saw the value in nominating them for this award," he said. "I’m confident that they’ll perform well at the next level of competition.”