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386th Expeditionary Medical Group changes command

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Holli Nelson
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Command of the 386th Expeditionary Medical Group passed from Col. Jeannine Ryder to Col. Susan Davis during a change of command ceremony Sunday at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia.

Davis deployed here from 59th Training Squadron, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas where she served as the commander of the 59th Medical Wing.

"Today we underscore, we commend and we celebrate the accomplishments of the 386th Expeditionary Medical Group under the dedicated leadership of Jeannine Ryder," said Col. John Klein, 386th Air Expeditionary Wing commander. "We transfer those achievements to Col. Susan Davis as a foundation upon which to build a firm footing to lead the medical group into the future, ready to respond to whatever is needed."

Klein thanked Ryder for her accomplishments over her one year tenure at The Rock.

"Thank you for your passion for excellence, for your stewardship and for leading the Airmen of the 386th EMDG so well," Klein said. "You're the finest medic I've ever worked with. I'm very appreciative and proud of all that you've accomplished for the 386th AEW."

During the ceremony, Ryder was awarded the Bronze Star for her actions and leadership. The medal is awarded to a person in any branch of the military service who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States, distinguishes themselves by heroic or meritorious achievement or service, not involving participation in aerial flight or in connection with military operations against an armed enemy.

"It is a very bittersweet day for me but I've enjoyed every moment I've been here and it seems like it went by in a flash," noted Ryder. "There have been challenges and tremendous growth for me personally and professionally, but the most important thing I'll take away is the amazement of how our Airmen can get the job done every single day and are still able to take care of themselves and each other."

Ryder also imparted words of wisdom to Davis before she took command of the 386th EMDG.

"I know The Rock will be better because you are here and I know you will be better because you're at The Rock," Ryder stated. "Get ready for the most rewarding period of your career."

The 386th EMDG supports the wing mission by ensuring a healthy and fit force and providing combat medical support, dental and force health protection for the Department of Defense and U.S. Forces throughout Southwest Asia.

Ryder will now go on to command the 72nd Medical Group at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.