23rd MDG falls under new commander

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- A new commander took the reigns of the 23rd Medical Group Oct 13 in a ceremony at the Moody Field Club. 

Col. Loraine Anderson succeeded Col. (Dr.) L. Mark Johnson, who is now the Air Mobility Command chief of medical operations at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. 

Providing top-notch medical treatment while upholding the Air Force core values are primary expectations for those under her command, said Colonel Anderson. 

"All I ask of my Airmen is to do the best they can both on and off duty," said the colonel, who's in charge of more than 270 active-duty and civilian staff members. "As they perform their assigned duties, I expect them to also uphold the Air Force core values to the best of their abilities." 

While providing medical treatment to 18,000 people in the local area is a large task, Colonel Anderson also expects the medical staff to fully support the 23rd Wing and its various missions. 

"Not only must we support the wing's missions, but we must also ensure the retired patriots and other health care beneficiaries are receiving the best care possible, as well as great customer service," said the commander who previously served as deputy commander of the 20th Medical Group at Shaw AFB, S.C. 

Maintaining high standards requires ensuring the medical staff has all the necessary resources, said Colonel Anderson. 

"My job is to ensure my Airmen have everything they need to complete our mission at the highest standards, while still ensuring they enjoy working under my command," said the new commander. 

Colonel Anderson feels the best way to help improve morale is by showing she supports those under her command. 

"My favorite part of being a commander is being able to present awards, announce promotions and visiting the new parents - in short, doing everything within my abilities to support the medical staff," she said. "I decided I wanted to become a commander, so I could use my position to help my subordinates. 

"When I can do that, as well as leave a positive legacy, I've done my job to the best of my ability," said Colonel Anderson.