Three earn 72nd ABW Wildcatter Awards

Three members of the 72nd Medical Group were recently honored with Wildcatter Awards from 72nd ABW Commander, Col. Stephanie Wilson.

Maj. Gail Bates has performed her duties as the Mental Health Flight medical director since July 2014. During this time she has served as expert consultant to 37 medical providers in the MDG on mental health issues and freely shares her expertise with the all of the organization. She has streamlined the mental health Medical Evaluation Board Process, which has led to 100 percent of primary mental health MEBs being on time.

Furthermore, Major Bates possesses elite clinical skill and has received five written patient compliments in the past six months and was coined by the 72nd Medical Operations Squadron commander for her efforts. Major Bates cares deeply for her patients and the mental health team. Her efforts were critical for the finding of zero discrepancies in MDOS on the 2015 UEI finding and the “Highly Effect” rating received by the 72nd ABW.

Airman 1st Class Angela Scurry has been a central in-processing center technician since June 2015. She is charged with the infection control training of 47 enlisted and civilian personnel. Airman Scurry impressed her leadership when one of the instrument washers went down and she worked late to ensure there was no stoppage in patient care due to unprocessed instruments. This would have greatly impacted the group’s readiness status. 

Her interpersonal skills are exceptional in a position that requires her to work with all levels of management, which is why she was hand-selected by the MDG first sergeant to brief the Air Force Materiel Command first sergeant functional manager. She was also hand-picked by the squadron superintendent to brief her critical role to the UEI inspection team. She has also been involved with two volunteer efforts. One effort included her assisting the medical wing’s immunizations clinic, where she provided administrative support during the administering of the flu vaccine. The other effort is on-going, where she tutors at Tinker Elementary to assist in the academic achievement of our community’s youth.

Dr. Philip Beck has performed his duties as an Occupational Medicine physician since September 2010. During this time, he supported the largest occupational health program in the Air Force. He has treated more than 16,000 industrial workers for acute and chronic injuries/illnesses, as well as performing pre-placement examinations and conducting civilian deployment assessments.