Col. Grussendorf takes helm of 72nd MDG

Col. Christopher M. Grussendorf assumed command of the 72nd Medical Group during an Aug. 17 ceremony at the group’s Tinker Air Force Base headquarters.

The physician and flight surgeon was most recently commander of the 78th Aerospace Medicine Squadron at Robins AFB, Ga.

Presiding Officer Col. Stephanie Wilson, commander of the 72nd Air Base Wing, praised Colonel Grussendorf’s “remarkable” credentials. The colonel’s career has included serving as chief resident in occupational and environmental medicine at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.

“He comes to us not only with extensive experience in the Air Force, but specific experience in Air Force Materiel Command and with the Air Logistics Complex,” Colonel Wilson said. “I am confident that his experience will make this transition seamless.

“His record echoes terms like inspirational leader, rock star, problem solver, stratospheric officer and out-front leader,” the colonel added.

Colonel Grussendorf said it is a privilege to join the outstanding medics and dedicated team that “improves the lives of those they serve.”

The Medical Group’s vision, the colonel said, should focus on three areas: trusted, high-quality care; enhancing the readiness and mission effectiveness of Air Force operators; and building Airmen.

“Through a culture of respect and professionalism, with a relentless drive for innovation and improvement, and relying on the teamwork necessary to generate the best contributions of all our valued Airmen, we will achieve the high level of excellence that our nation deserves,” Colonel Grussendorf said.

The 72nd Medical Group delivers health care to 18,000 military members, 13,000 government and civilian employees and 27,890 eligible retired/retired family members in the community. Last year, the 72nd MDG handled 160,000 patient encounters, completed 49,000 dental procedures and dispensed 292,000 prescriptions.