442nd Medical Squadron: their mission is caring

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Angela Blazier
  • 442nd Fighter Wing public affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  “Ready, able and caring” is more than a slogan for the 442nd Medical Squadron, it’s a mission philosophy.

“We’re ready to meet to the mission … and we’re able to provide the best medical care around,” said Senior Master Sgt. Billy Day, superintendent of aerospace medicine. “Caring … well, that’s our job. We’re here to take care of the wing.”

During a unit training assembly, the medical squadron averages more than 100 physicals, as well as numerous hearing examinations, immunizations, dental exams and gas-mask fit tests. In addition, these dedicated reservists must maintain stringent job training requirements, as well as the ancillary training required by all reservists.
 
Being flexible is an important aspect of the squadron’s success, according to Senior Airman Lisa Oheim, medical technician. “We have to float from position to position,” she said. “If they don’t have people to fill a spot, we might have to work with a dentist, ophthalmologist or in immunizations.” 

“Yesterday alone, we did 47 physicals,” Oheim continued. “ … that makes us really proud we have the cohesion to complete that.” 

The medical squadron’s breath and depth of civilian experience also contributes to their success. 

“Everyone is highly educated,” said Capt. Jill Blake-Musick, hospital administrator. “Some people see weekend warriors, … but we really are professional physicians, nurses and med. techs.” 

Sergeant Day is proud of the squadron’s accomplishments and sees the medical unit’s role as critical to the fighter wing’s ability to complete its wartime and peacetime missions. 

“If you look over the past four years, no one has returned from a contingency or deployment for a medical condition not identified before they left,” he said. “We’re here to ensure people don’t get into a situation where they are in need of medical care and can’t get it.” 

“We’re here to take care of the wing,” Sergeant Day continued. “If they have a problem, we’re going to find a way to fix it.” 

Airman Oheim has a similar philosophy. “Every single patient – we care about getting them ready (to deploy),” she said.
 
With the staggering workload and the many facets of the medical squadron, one might ask why they continue to serve. 

“People don’t go into medicine or nursing without some kind of altruistic intent,” said Col. Jim Fishback, 442nd Medical Squadron deputy commander. “The people are here because they want to be.” 

“I can’t think of another job where I could have the same kind of stimulations,” Sergeant Day said. “I love the challenge.”