Academy Spotlight: Maj. William R. Howarth Published Jan. 29, 2016 By Ray Bowden U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs Colorado Springs Colorado -- Air FMaj. William R. Howarth Air Force specialty: Medical Unit: 10th MSGS Duty position: Military Colorado Springs Total Joint Replacement-Initiative chief "I perform or supervise all military total hip and knee replacements in the Colorado Springs area, thus standardizing care through Army and Air Force commands to optimize patient success. I built a program that coordinates clinical care from outpatient evaluation through surgical joint replacement to successful and complete physical therapy. This program has blossomed into one of the biggest Defense Department joint-replacement programs in the country and will be a model for future DOD programs. Eventually this program will compete against the best civilian programs in the country." -- Maj. William Howarth Hometown: Harrisonburg, Virginia. Favorite aspect of being assigned to the Academy: "The people and the healthy environment. The great part about this job is the opportunity to change someone's life and help them feel young again." Hobbies/Interests: My five daughters and my wonderful wife. Commanders quote: "Maj. Bobby Howarth is a powerhouse in the Colorado Springs Military Health System. He leads the total joint-replacement program, which has recaptured $4.7 million in only 6 months. It is rare to see a relatively junior officer step up to lead such an important program. His exemplary leadership has been recognized all the way to the office of the Air Force Surgeon General. Bobby will certainly continue to do amazing things for the Air Force Medical Service!" – Col. Walter Matthews, U.S. Air Force Academy command surgeon