HomeNewsArticle Display

Col. Ice takes command of Aerospace Medicine squadron

  • Published
  • By Brandice J. Armstrong
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --   Col. James Ice accepted command of the 72nd Aerospace Medical Squadron July 7. Col. Robert Marks, 72nd Medical Group commander, presided over the ceremony.

Standing in front of approximately 125 people, at the main entrance of Bldg. 3334's Occupational Health Facility, Colonel Marks welcomed Colonel Ice. Col. Craig Packard accepted a meritorious service medal - fourth oak leaf cluster before relinquishing command.

"We are fortunate to have a new commander who is already familiar with the programs, who just needs to adjust his scale," said Colonel Marks. "Colonel Ice, welcome to our team. I have no doubt you will be very successful here."

Colonel Ice came to Tinker from Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., where he served as the commander of the 19th Medical Operations Squadron.

"Thank you to [Col. Allen Jamerson, 72nd Air Base Wing and installation commander], and Colonel Marks for the trust you're placing in me," Colonel Ice said. "It is a tremendous honor as well as responsibility."

Colonel Packard led the 72nd AMDS since 2006. He left Tinker for an assignment at Langley AFB, Va.

During his tenure, Colonel Packard achieved significant feats, including a Health and Wellness Center program aimed to reduce body mass index that Air Force Materiel Command later adopted. Under Colonel Packard's leadership, the squadron won an AFMC-level award; he offered insight and guidance into the H1N1 or Swine Flu epidemic to reduce the threat. His unit also earned an "excellent" rating on a 2008 Air Force health services inspection. Due to his many accomplishments, Colonel Packard was presented with a meritorious service medal - fourth oak leaf cluster.

"Colonel Packard was responsible for one of the most complex missions within any medical group," Colonel Marks said. "As aerospace medicine commander, he was responsible for a variety of programs that impact almost every aspect of the Tinker mission. I know the men and women of the aerospace medicine squadron have appreciated your support."

Colonel Packard reciprocated the accolades.

"It's been a great honor to serving with you," Colonel Packard said. "You have made me proud every time I turn around. The accomplishments are just unbelievable. You have made me look good."