36 MDG clinic named best in Air Force

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Whitney Tucker
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - --  Cheers echoed throughout the sprawling entryway of the 36th Medical Group here as Brig. Gen. John Doucette, 36th Wing commander, announced the medic's latest conquest: 2011 Air Force clinic of the Year.

Having won the Pacific Command title four years running, the coveted Air Force level award had remained elusive until now. According to General Doucette, it was only a matter of time before the team's hard work and dedication came to fruition.

"Every time I drive by this clinic I look at the building and think to myself what an incredible opportunity you have to work, and provide service in this type of facility," he said. "The closer I get, the more apparent the sign listing all of your many accomplishments becomes; you have proven your merit again and again."

The compliance inspection in May, the triennial Health Services Inspection in Sept., and the countless exercises in between left no doubt as to the ability of 36 MDG members to thrive under pressure in 2011.

"The success of this past year can only be attributed to everyone's amazing ability to maintain a positive attitude and work together as a team," said Lt. Col. Stephanie Schaefer, 36 MDG deputy commander. "In order to achieve what we have, you must be a cohesive group, striving for one goal; in our case, the outstanding medical care of our customers."

As congratulations from Gen. Gary North, PACAF commander, filled the room, the reality of victory sunk in and Colonel Schaefer swelled with pride.

"This is awesome," she said. "It is a wonderful honor to be named Air Force clinic of the Year and I know that each and every one of these Airmen worked hard to earn it."

General Doucette echoed the deputy commander's sentiments.

"In my entire career, I haven't known any clinic to earn Major Command top honors four years consecutively. And now, in light of this new victory, you have proven to the entire Air Force that you truly are the best of the best."