April 15, 2025

New ERASE Program Aims to Save Lives Through Early Cardiac Risk Detection

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — The ERASE program, led by retired Air Force Capt. Dr. M. Alaric Franzos, is a pilot initiative aimed at reducing sudden cardiac arrest in military personnel through early ECG screening at basic training and service academies. Reviving a previously discontinued practice, the program uses modern technology and data to identify hidden cardiac risks and improve medical readiness. With promising early results, ERASE could shape future Department of Defense screening policy.

April 14, 2025

Building Readers at Home: A Parent's Guide to Early Literacy

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — Literacy begins long before a child enters school—and parents play the most important role. This article offers simple, age-based strategies for military families to nurture early reading and language skills from birth through preschool. With consistency, connection, and a few good books, parents can give their children a strong head start—one story at a time.

April 9, 2025

Breaking the Silence: How the 59th MDW Is Transforming Mental Health Care for Military Aviators

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — Capt. (Dr.) William Hoffman, a neurologist and aeromedical researcher with the 59th Medical Wing, is addressing widespread healthcare avoidance among military aviators through data-driven research and policy advocacy. His findings show that fear of losing flight status discourages many pilots from seeking medical or mental health care, prompting the development of initiatives like the Military Aviator Peer Support (MAPS) program. By promoting early intervention, peer support, and reforming mental health policies, Hoffman aims to shift military aviation culture toward one that embraces mental wellness as a component of mission readiness.

March 10, 2025

Air Force Empowers Airmen Through Continuous Improvement Green Belt Certification

JBSA-LACKLAND, Texas — The Air Force’s Continuous Improvement and Innovation (CI2) program equips Airmen with Lean Six Sigma tools to enhance efficiency and mission readiness. Through Green Belt certification, Airmen complete online training and lead process improvement projects to streamline operations. This initiative fosters a culture of innovation, ensuring the Air Force maximizes resources and maintains operational excellence.

Feb. 28, 2025

Military Aviator Peer Support Program Expands with 59th Medical Wing Research and Leadership

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — The Military Aviator Peer Support program at Ramstein Air Base, developed by the 86th Operations Group with support from the 59th Medical Wing, provides Air Force aviators with peer-based, non-medical mental health support to address stressors while maintaining flight readiness. Backed by research highlighting healthcare avoidance among aircrew, the program trains enlisted and officer peer supporters to offer confidential guidance, with ongoing evaluation to expand its impact across the Air Force.

Feb. 12, 2025

Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan earns Arthur S. Flemming Award for contributions to dental research

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan, recipient of the Arthur S. Flemming Award, is recognized for his leadership in military dental research and innovation. His work enhances operational readiness and advances oral health care for service members.

Jan. 31, 2025

Air Force Medical Leaders Observe Cutting-Edge Medical Readiness Training at Camp Bullis

CAMP BULLIS, Texas — U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Sean Collins, Air Force Medical Command (AFMEDCOM) commander, and Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, AFMEDCOM chief of staff, visited the 59th Medical Readiness Training Center (MRTC) at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Texas, to observe medical readiness training on 31 Jan. 2025.

Jan. 28, 2025

Wilford Hall Lab Sets the Gold Standard in Military Medicine

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — The Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center laboratory is the largest Air Force clinical lab, providing critical diagnostic support to military personnel and their families with precision and efficiency. With a team of 72 experts conducting 2.2 million tests annually, the lab upholds the highest standards of care, innovation, and mission readiness in military medicine.

Nov. 26, 2024

Air Force Wounded Warrior Program Provides Comprehensive Support for Service Members

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (AFW2) provides non-medical support to Airmen and Guardians recovering from injuries, illnesses, or combat-related conditions, helping them reintegrate into duty or civilian life. Through recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration initiatives, the program offers resources such as adaptive sports, employment assistance, and resiliency workshops, serving as a vital lifeline for nearly 3,000 service members.

Aug. 26, 2024

New commander takes the helm of Air Force's top medical wing

JBSA-LACKLAND, Texas. — Members of the Air Force's 59th Medical Wing reflected on their recent accomplishments and readiness for future missions during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Aug. 23, 2024.