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Medic featured in AF's "Portraits in Courage VI"

  • Published
  • By G.W. Pomeroy
  • Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs
WASHINGTON --  An Air Force medic is among 18 Airmen featured in the latest edition of "Portraits in Courage."

Staff Sgt. Jack Williams, 88th Inpatient Operations Squadron, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, was the lead medic for a provincial reconstruction team in a highly populated, hotly contested area of Afghanistan when his medical skills were put to the test repeatedly. He saved numerous lives in one-on-one and mass casualty situations. His patients were coalition members, Afghan soldiers and local nationals.

"Whether risking life or limb to call in air strikes, deftly disarming improvised explosive devices, running through a gauntlet of enemy fire or tirelessly providing humanitarian support, the Airmen who are showcased here exemplify the warrior ethos," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Roy in the preface.

"Although they represent only a small cross-section of our Air Force, these Airmen exemplify the character of our citizens who answer the call of duty by volunteering to serve our Nation in a time of conflict. Because valor has no expiration date and courage is timeless, it is our hope that these stories will inspire future generations of men and women to also undertake noble service to our country," said Schwartz and Roy.

"We're extremely proud of Staff Sergeant Williams and his efforts," said Chief Master Sgt. Charlie Cole, chief, medical enlisted force. "He was well trained, well prepared and executed leadership and immediate medical actions to save the lives of those around him regardless of any concerns for his personal safety. He's a phenomenal representative of the 32,000 total force Air Force enlisted medics who provide trusted care anywhere it's needed."

Schwartz announced the release of the latest volume Sept. 20 during an address at the Air Force Association's 2011 Air & Space Conference and Technology Exposition at National Harbor, Md.

To view the entire edition click here: http://www.af.mil/specials/courage/index.html