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Two MDG squadrons are redesignated to better execute mission

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Austin J. Prisbrey
  • Kirtland Public Affairs
The 377th Aerospace Medicine Squadron and the 377th Medical Operations Squadron were redesignated to the 377th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron and the 377th Health Care Operations Squadron at Kirtland Air Force Base, August 16.

The redesignation comes by order of the Secretary of the Air Force. The redesignation ceremony marked the formal transition to the new medical group model as lined out by the Air Force Medical Service.

“This new structure optimizes both functions and allows us to return Airmen back to full mission capability as quickly as possible without decrementing care to our beneficiaries,” said Lt. Col. Robert Corby, Chief of Medical Manpower and Personnel, Office of the Air Force Surgeon General. “Restructuring where care is delivered lets our providers focus on each group to improve the quality of care, create efficiencies and most importantly, get injured or ill Airmen back into the fight more quickly.”

This new medical model separates patients into active duty and non-active duty categories. The 377th HCOS will care for all non-active duty patients.

“The health care operations squadron will continue to provide excellent care to our 13,000 beneficiaries and ensure our patient population remains healthy and a vibrant part of our community,” said Col. Gregory Coleman, 377th Medical Group Commander.

The 377th OMRS duties are to care for all active duty personnel.

“The operational medical readiness squadron will focus on the specific capabilities required to take care of our Airmen, ensuring they are lethal and ready,” said Coleman. “This change creates the flexibility to proactively manage Airmen’s care, improve the availability of Airmen and rapidly restore their readiness and deployability.”

During the redesignation ceremony, the guidons for the 377th AMDS and 377th MDOS were passed, furled and sheathed representing the end of those squadrons. The guidons for the 377th OMRS and the 377th HCOS were unfurled, signifying the start of a new squadron and a new mission.

The redesignation ceremony is part of military history dating back to the 18th century during the reign of King Frederick the Great of Prussia. During this time, organizational flags were developed with color arrangement and symbols unique to a particular unit. To this flag and its commander, the soldiers would dedicate their loyalty and trust.