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FROM: American Association of Physician Assistants (AAPA)
Recently, the Association of Physician Assistants posted information regarding its
commitment to the President Obama’s Joining Forces Campaign. The AAPA is
committed to supporting service members, veteran’s and family members and has
posted information on this initiative on its Veteran’s page of its website at http://
www.aapa.org/veterans/. On this site, LTC John Balser is featured in a video
about military health care and military PAs. The opening editorial from this site
is found below.
AAPA is a partner in the Joining Forces Campaign. We are dedicated to being a
part of this important mission to support U.S. service members, military veterans,
their families and families of the fallen. The physician assistant profession has
roots in the military, and many physician assistants serve with those warriors on
the front lines. However, caring for the military community is a priority for all
physician assistants as service members return home to fight new battles such as
post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries, and as other military families
deal with the loss of a fallen warrior.
AAPA is committed to providing physician assistants with the tools needed to
identify the challenges faced by the military community and the resources to sup-
port military families for decades to come as they heal from the many invisible
wounds of war.
Also joining this initiative are the AAPA Veteran’s Caucus and Physician Assistant
Education Association (PAEA).
AAPA Calls for PAs to Support Military
AAPA News 1
NCCPA News 2
Why Associations 4
Grimes PA
Training Center
6
Promotion News 8
LTHET Results 9
Menendez wins
TSG-PA Award
10
Bell Wins Reserve
PA Award
12
Strain Flight
Surgeon of Year
13
Iron Majors
Invade D.C
14
Promotion
Quagmire
16
Army’s Lowest
O5 Promo Rate
20
PAs take on new
duties
21
PA STRATCOM 23
Portrait
Dedication
24
A Great Day to be
a Soldier
27
Ft. Bragg IPAP 28
Guess Who? 29
Service News 30
Editor Farewell 31
Senior Discount! 32
SAPA JOURNAL The Society of Army Physician Assistants
A Civilian Organization Representing Army PAs
J U L / 2 0 1 2 Vol. 26, NO. 9A P O I N T S O F
I N T E R E S T :
AAPA Supports Troops
NCCPA News
PAs take new positions
Promotion Numbers
PA Awards
PO Box 4068
Waynesville, MO. 65583
Phone
573-528-2307 FAX 888-711-8543
P A G E 2
“In December,
232 certified PAs
became the first
to earn
Certificates of
Added
Qualifications...”
NCCPA Awards First Certificates for Added Qualifications
In December 2011, the NCCPA awarded the first specialty certificates to PAs in five sub-
specialties. To apply, there is no requirement to have completed a specialty residency. In
addition, the testing is currently voluntary and there is no data to suggest that passing this
examination will lead to higher wages, better reimbursement or improved marketability.
However, as the PA profession continues to evolve educational requirements increase as
seen with most programs becoming Master’s level and the Army having two specialty pro-
grams (Emergency Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery) that award doctorate level degrees.
Thus, this change is an expected expansion in credentialing requirements. However, cur-
rently it appears that there is modest benefit to providers with the exception of bragging
rights. However, currently the major benefactor is the NCCPA which stands to benefit
through charging PAs to take both a primary care and specialty examination. It is probable,
that in the future PAs will be required to take both a primary care and specialty examina-
tion to practice in any field other than primary care. The article below comes from the
NCCPA via a news blast.
In December, 232 certified PAs became the first to earn Certificates of Added Qualifica-
tions (CAQs) by meeting licensure, education, and experience requirements and passing a
specialty exam. Certificates of Added Qualifications (CAQs) were awarded cardiovascular
and thoracic surgery (16) emergency medicine (142), nephrology (4), orthopedic surgery
(32), and psychiatry (40), specialties selected after discussions with PA and physician special-
ty organizations and consideration of needs and trends in health care. Across these five
specialty areas, 94 percent of examinees earned the CAQ.
Requirements for sitting for the CAQ examinations is listed below.
To qualify for a specialty CAQ, PAs must first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current
PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at
least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to
practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all
of the licenses must be unrestricted.)
For PAs meeting those basic prerequisites, the CAQ process includes four core require-
ments: (1) Category I specialty CME, (2) one to two years of experience, (3) procedures
and patient case experience appropriate for the specialty, and (4) a specialty exam.
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 3
“The two-hour
CAQ exams
include 120
multiple-choice
questions
administered in
two blocks of 60
questions with 60
minutes to
complete each
block.”
Added Qualifications Continued
The first three core requirements may be completed in any order. Once those are
complete, PAs are eligible for the exam.
The cost of this program is just $350, including a $100 administrative fee and a $250
exam registration fee.
The two-hour CAQ exams include 120 multiple-choice questions administered in
two blocks of 60 questions with 60 minutes to complete each block. There is no
allotted break time. You will have 15 minutes to complete the CAQ tutorial. The
exam date for all Specialty CAQ exams is Sept. 10, 2012. Keep in mind that PAs
who submit a completed application by June 29, 2012, and schedule their exam with
Pearson VUE by July 9, 2012, will be guaranteed exam administration availability on
September 10. However, NCCPA does not guarantee availability at the PAs choice
of testing centers.
The final deadline for submitting the exam application is September 7, 2012. Howev-
er, NCCPA cannot guarantee availability of testing centers for physician assistants
who attempt to schedule CAQ exams after July 9, 2012.
Once awarded, a CAQ will be valid for a period of six years (provided that licen-
sure status and PA-C certification are maintained).
S A P A J O U R N A L
“We need associa-
tions to stand up for
our right to practice
medicine in a team
environment. Our
history is full of ex-
amples of associa-
tions that have suc-
cessfully broken
down barriers to PA
practice.”
P A G E 4
Associations: If we don’t stand together,
we might just fall apart
The following article appeared in the Journal of the American Association of Physician
Assistants (JAAPA) on 13 June 2012 and can be found at http://www.jaapa.com/
associations-1.
By David Bunnell, MSHS, PA-C
I have recently returned from the AAPA Conference in Toronto. My suitcase is unpacked, but I am
keeping it close at hand because I will be going to the Association of Physician Assistants in Cardio-
vascular Surgery (APACVS) Critical Care Conference and Skills Lab at the end of June in. Long Island,
NY. All of this begs the question of why I am spending perfectly good summer vacation time in hotel
ballrooms. The answer is simple. Associations are a way that we can professionally stand together
for the best interests of our profession. They are also a way to gain invaluable professional experi-
ence.
The most visible part of PA associations is the incredible effort that is put forth in continuing medical
education. PAs have had to prove our knowledge and abilities ever since our inception. This desire
to constantly gain and refine the tools that we need is what has earned our profession a place in pri-
mary care and every specialty that one could imagine. It is also this aspiration to be excellent clini-
cians that will propel us into the future as we continue to provide quality and safe patient care.
We need associations to stand up for our right to practice medicine in a team environment. Our
history is full of examples of associations that have successfully broken down barriers to PA practice.
There are corners of current practice and geographic locations where those barriers still exist.
There is nobody else out there to fight our battles. It is invaluable to have the support of our physi-
cian colleagues, but their organizations do not primarily exist to defend our profession. We need to
stand together so that we can continue to grow and progress.
I believe that our ability to network with each other is an underappreciated benefit of associations.
At first glance, it is a way to enable future professional opportunities, but I believe that these net-
working connections have deeper meaning than finding jobs. By joining associations, I have been able
to learn what is happening to PAs across the country in comparison to my own experience. I have
learned where it is good to practice and in some places, where we have more work to do. I have
met several mentors who have been generous with their time to help me understand our profession.
Meeting people that are willing to help you work through professional questions and difficulties is
invaluable. I am not sure how people get along without a little help from their friends.
S A P A J O U R N A L
“Perhaps you are
simply too busy to
volunteer for our PA
associations. Every-
one's day-to-day life
gets more compli-
cated and busy while
time passes by at an
alarming rate. My
advice is to join the
AAPA, join your
specialty organiza-
tion, and join your
state organization..”
P A G E 5
Associations: If we don’t stand together,
we might just fall apart
The stealth benefit that more people are starting to recognize is the amazing training
ground in our associations for organizational leadership. Our associations run on volun-
teer leadership to protect our ability to practice. Few people are born with the innate
knowledge and skills to develop a team to work towards a goal. This is something that is
learned over time. I know that there are many graduate degrees available that are de-
signed to teach these things, but I suspect that a grade on a paper will never be as satis-
fying or as educational as actually achieving a goal. A person could learn to change the
world with this skill set.
Perhaps you are simply too busy to volunteer for our PA associations. Everyone's day-to
-day life gets more complicated and busy while time passes by at an alarming rate. My
advice is to join the AAPA, join your specialty organization, and join your state organi-
zation. By doing so, you align yourself with individuals who hold your professional inter-
ests as their reason for being. Membership keeps you informed about the PA communi-
ty as a whole. Being a member gives you the right to contact your association when you
have a professional concern.
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 6
CPT Sean P. Grimes PA Training Center
The following information has been provided by COL (retired) Don Black, former Di-
rector Blanchfield Army Community Hospital, Phase II Interservice Physician Assistant
Program (IPAP) Director.
On 4 March 2005, the AMEDD family was notified that Captain Sean P. Grimes, PA-C had been
killed in action by an improvised explosive device (IED) while on patrol in Iraq. Captain Grimes was
the first physician assistant ever to be killed during combat operations. He was assigned to Blanch-
field Army Community Hospital, Fort Campbell, KY for his Phase II physician assistant training. It
was an honor to have had the opportunity to know and mentor Captain Grimes during his training at
Fort Campbell. He was known for his great sense of humor and dedication to his patients, friends
and family. To establish his legacy of service to America's best, his parents Donald and Mary Grimes,
his brother Don Grimes and his sister Mary T. Grimes decided to honor his memory here and
across the AMEDD. In order to assist future physician assistant students to have a dedicated place
to train and study here at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital, the family decided to establish and
fund a portion of the Captain Sean P. Grimes, PA-C, Physician Assistant Training Center.
Through the leadership and support of two consecutive Hospital Commanders, then Colonel Rich-
ard W. Thomas and Colonel John P. Cook, following the approval of the OTSG, Lieutenant General
Eric B. Schoomaker; the SRMC Commander, Brigadier General Joseph Caravalho, Jr. and the
AMEDD Memorialization committee, the training center opened its doors on 06 May 2011. On
opening day at 0930, Colonel John P. Cook, Hospital Commander & Director of Health Services
presented the first lecture in the training center on officer leadership to all PA students on site. One
week later on 13 May 2011 at 1300, the Grimes family with the AMEDD family, hospital commander
and post commander assembled to memorialize the Captain Sean P. Grimes, PA-C, Physician Assis-
tant Training Center.
The theme of the ceremony was "Freedom Is Not Free". Ronald Reagan said, "Freedom is never
more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the blood-
stream. It must be fought for, protected and handed on for them to do the same. Freedom prospers
when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.”
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 7
CPT Sean P. Grimes PA Training Center
The sequence of events for opening ceremony of the CPT Sean P. Grimes, PA-C,
Physician Assistant Training Center follows.
National Anthem
Invocation : Major Ladislao Hernandez
Welcome & Recognition of Guests: Colonel John P. Cook
Memorialization Address: Colonel John P. Cook
Freedom Is Not Free: Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Donald A. Black ( Poem-"Freedom Is
Not Free" by Major Kelly Strong)
Reflections: Captain Chris Montoya (Served with Captain Grimes)
Grimes Family Remarks: Mr. Donald Grimes (Brother of Captain Grimes)
Phase II Medical Director Remarks: Major David Mendoza
Presentations: Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Donald A. Black
To: BG Richard W. Thomas (unable to attend)
Colonel Mark McGrail (DCCS)
The Grimes Family
Colonel John P. Cook
Closing Remarks and Benediction: Major (Ret) Stephen W. Ward
Following the ceremony, guests attended a reception and tour of the newly opened
Captain Sean P. Grimes, PA-C, Physician Assistant Training Center immediately follow-
ing the ceremony.
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 8
Results of LTC Selection Boards
Congratulations to the following PAs who have been selected to LTC. Although the
promotion rate of approximately 45% is not ideal this is the highest number (10) of PAs
ever promoted to LTC in from one selection board. See opinion article written by MAJ
Pat O'Neil.
MAJ (P) Bruce J. Beecher (65D)
MAJ (P) Michael E. Franco (65D)
MAJ (P) David L. Hamilton (65D)
MAJ (P) Robert S. Heath (65D)
MAJ (P) Sean M. Hermick (65D)
MAJ (P) Karl Kisch (65D)
MAJ (P) Jeffrey E. Oliver (65D)
MAJ (P) Craig V. Paige (65D)
MAJ (P) Leslie Randolph-Moss (65D)
MAJ (P) Kathleen M. Schultz (65D)
During the Army Medical Specialist Corps 65 anniversary, COL Teresa Schneider (Corps Chief)
awarded MAJ Kathy Schultz (Corps XO) the Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3) and an en-
graved Corps Coin of Excellence for her 23 years of service. Kathy, congratulations on your retire-
ment and good luck in the future.
S A P A J O U R N A L
Photo courtesy of SP Corps Connection
P A G E 9
Long Term Health Education and Training Program (LTHET)
Congratulations to the following PAs who have been selected for Long Term
Health Education and Training for FY 2013. The Long Term Health Education
and Training (LTHET) program is designed to provide additional education for
active duty officers to meet the needs of the Army Medical Department.
CPT Phillip Adams, DSc, Emergency Medicine
MAJ Brian Burk, PhD, Education/Epidemiology
CPT Nathan Cornwall, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT Joseph Costello, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT John Davinson, RES, General Surgery (Intensivist)
CPT Robert Dichiera, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
CPT Scott Fisher, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT Gregory Hershey, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT Jason Hrdina, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT Greg Lincoln, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
CPT Karyn Manges, DSc, Emergency Medicine
CPT Ryan Rodriguez, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
CPT Suzanne Sica, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
CPT Brian Simons, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
MAJ Michael Smith, RES, General Surgery (Intensivist)
CPT Raul Villalobos, DSc, Clinical Orthopaedics
CPT Valerie Watkins, MHA, Army Baylor Health Administration
SAPA wishes these officers good luck with their education and future Army endeavors.
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 1 0
“In Combat,
where his skills
are the most
critical, CPT
Menendez excels
as not only a
medical
professional, but
also as a combat
leader.”
Menendez Awarded TSG-PA Recognition Award
CPT Manny Menendez has been named The Surgeon General PA of the Year award winner
for 2012. Manny is assigned to the 3rd Ranger Battalion after moving from the Headquar-
ters Company, 75th Ranger Regiment. I had the pleasure of hiring Manny while serving as
the 75th Ranger Regiment’s Senior PA. Prior to winning this prestigious award, he was
named the Distinguished Officer Graduate of Ranger School. Below is the citation for his
nomination written by his battalion commander, LTC Marcus Evans.
CPT Menendez has set the standard ever since his arrival to the 75th Ranger Regiment, and
his actions during 2011, specifically have set him apart as the most outstanding physician
assistant of the year. His leadership, clinical acumen, knowledge and experience have made
him an indispensable asset to the unit whether he is delivering life-saving, point-of-injury
care on the battlefield or designing, developing and reviewing protocols and guidelines that
can impact medical personnel throughout the Army. He is the best physician assistant I
have worked with in 17 years of service and clearly deserving of the Physician Assistant
Recognition Award.
In Combat, where his skills are the most critical, CPT Menendez excels as not only a medi-
cal professional, but also as a combat leader. His clear intent, extreme professionalism, and
calm demeanor make him a true combat multiplier on every operation. In the past year, he
deployed twice, each time serving as the Task Force Surgeon for a different geographically-
oriented joint special operations task force. With over 500 members. He has provided ex-
pert medical support to over 200 missions against time-sensitive targets of national signifi-
cance, and has tactically moved through multiple high-value objective areas carrying over
seventy pounds of mission essential equipment across inhospitable terrain above 6000 feet
of elevation. CPT Menendez’s versatile and flexible medical skills were indispensable as he
provided critical life-saving interventions while under direct fire to combat casualties on
high risk special operations direct action raids. He continued that same unparalleled care as
he helped evacuate those casualties on numerous special operation evacuation platforms to
include rotary and tilt wing assets. CPT Menendez has provided superb medical evaluation
and treatment in courageous and selfless actions were recognized with a Bronze Star and
Army Commendation Medal for his action on these objectives. In training, CPT Menendez’s
leadership and influence are equally as prominent. He has been a steady presence in the
continued development of the 75th Ranger Regiment’s Special Operations Combat Medics
(SOCMs) and other medical assets during his tenure.
COL Schneider, SP
Corps Chief and
LTC Balser, 65D
Chief present TSG-
PA Award to CPT
P A G E 1 1
“He assisted in
the design of the
“Punisher,” a
new combat
fitness training
facility for the
3rd Ranger
Battalion.”
Menendez Awarded TSG-PA Recognition Award
He helped redesign 3rd Ranger Battalion’s Combat Trauma Management Course which
greatly improved Ranger Medic progression. The new format was adopted by the entire
Regiment and is now the standard followed by all four Ranger battalions. Recognizing the
battlefield importance of the Ranger First Responder (RFR) as well, CPT Menendez devel-
oped the Advanced Ranger First Responder Course. This course, designed to provide en-
hanced trauma management skills to the non-medical Rangers of the battalion, greatly im-
proved trauma and extrication capabilities across the force. CPT Menendez has also en-
deavored to improve medical protocols in the battalion and the Army as a whole. At the
unit level, he prepared a revised sedation and pain management protocol with ketamine,
midazolam, and morphine. His protocol improves the pain management capabilities and
effectiveness of the combat medics in trauma scenarios and was subsequently adopted as a
75th Ranger Regiment standard. He has been an integral contributor for the upcoming re-
vised Ranger Medic Handbook , helping to develop and review treatment, trauma and medi-
cation protocols that will be used as guidelines for medics throughout the Army. He is also
a contributor for the development activities of the upcoming Physician Assistant Handbook
aimed at the entire physician assistant branch.
Additionally, CPT Menendez has been intimately involved with continuing to improve and
better evaluate the already high level of physical fitness throughout 3rd Ranger Battalion.
He has helped design a scoring system and scoring tracker for the Ranger Physical Assess-
ment Test, helping commanders quantify the outcomes of physical training. He assisted in
the design of the “Punisher,” a new combat fitness training facility for the 3rd Ranger Battal-
ion. Yet, not only does he work to improve the fitness of the battalion, he also set the
standard. During his evaluation for the last 75th Ranger Regiment Fitness Challenge, he
placed 5th in the battalion earning a coveted spot on the 3rd Ranger Battalion– Ranger Ath-
lete Warrior (RAW) Team. Through it all, he still was able to devote over 100 hrs to con-
tinued medical education and self development. CPT Menendez is the epitome of the phy-
sician assistant and a warrior leader. He sets the example but also works diligently to en-
sure his subordinates exceed every standard. He constantly strives to improve himself , the
unit and the Army. There is no doubt in my mind that he is the top physician assistant in
the Army today and deserves the coveted Physician Assistant Recognition Award.
SAPA extends congratulations to CPT Menendez. Job well done!
“CPT Bell’s thorough
and meticulous
knowledge of medical
injuries, use of medical
regulations and E-
Profile Data Systems
ensures Soldiers are
able to engage in
physical activities after
recovery from
injuries.”
P A G E 1 2
Bell Named Reserve PA of the Year
The Army Medical Specialist Corps recently released the results of the 2012 Award of
Excellence. The winner of the 65D (PA) Reserve category is CPT Michael Bell. Below
is the citation.
Narrative Summary
It is my honor to nominate CPT Michael Patrick Bell for the Chief, Army Medical Specialist Corps
Award of Excellence (65D). CPT Bell has been invaluable instrumental in the success of Alpha and
Bravo Companies, 396th Combat Support Hospital during the period of 1 January 2011 through 31
December 2011. CPT Bell assumed the roles of Company Training Officer to enhance both the
readiness and the overall efficiency of the hospital. Alpha Company relocated facilities from a re-
serve center nestled in a civilian community to an Air Force Base capable of providing much needed
training space to employ a forty bed slice of the Combat Support Hospital (CSH). CPT Bell assisted
in the original design and erection of the hospital based upon both training requirements and space
limitations. The end result was a hospital capable of administering leading edge healthcare to pa-
tients from a secure Air Force runway flight line and non-secure, more traditional approach via
ground ambulance. CPT Bell donated personal time to plan and implement two field training type
exercises based upon his extensive experience and training from previous deployments to Bosnia
and Iraq to train both medical and non-medical Soldiers assigned to the hospital. During the exer-
cise, CPT Bell tirelessly devoted his talents to commence medical training beginning with the least
prepared as well as the more seasoned Soldiers. His training scenarios encompassed basic life saving
skills to complex surgical procedures ensuring all Soldiers participated as a team and not as individu-
als. This training enhances Soldier preparedness for future deployments. CPT Bell sets and main-
tains the highest standards for bot officers and enlisted Soldiers to emulate. CPT Bell’s thorough and
meticulous knowledge of medical injuries, use of medical regulations and E-Profile Data Systems en-
sures Soldiers are able to engage in physical activities after recovery from injuries. Additionally, CPT
Bell employs his military knowledge and expertise as a Physician’s Assistant in civilian life in a small
farming community.
In closing, CPT Michael Bell is deserving of this recognition because of his extraordinary devotion to
training and maintaining superior Soldiers with exceptional MOS and Soldier skills. This ensures Sol-
diers are prepared for future deployments as both a strategic and operational force of the Army
Reserve. CPT Bell is an invaluable asset to the 396th Combat Support Hospital and a credit of the
Specialty Corps as a Physician Assistant.
SAPA extends congratulations to CPT Michael Patrick Bell. Job well done.!
Both PA Award articles courtesy of Army Medical Specialist Corps Office
S A P A J O U R N A L
“I am particularly
proud to receive this
award as it represents
the support I received
from my chain of com-
mand and medical
team subordinates
while deployed. It is
especially satisfying to
receive it here at
NGAGA before my
wife and fellow Geor-
gia Guardsmen,” said
Strain.
P A G E 1 3
Strain is Army Flight Surgeon of the Year
The following article comes from the Cartersville Patch, 29 June 2012 and was written
by MAJ William Cox
JEKYLL ISLAND—John W. Strain, a Cartersville resident and Georgia Army National Guard major,
received the Society of U.S. Army Flight Surgeon's 2011 Theodore Lyster Flight Surgeon of the Year
Award in front of his family and co-workers at Jekyll Island. He was recognized for his achievements
as the Task Force 1-171 General Support Aviation Battalion’s Aero Medical Physician Assistant while
deployed to Operation new Dawn at Contingency Operating Station Taji, Iraq 2010-2011.
“Major Strain was the primary reason, from a medical standpoint, that the unit did as well as it did
serving a very demanding mission. He is selfless, confident, full of integrity and has a servant heart. It
was an honor to serve with him,” said Lt. Col. Richard Scheuring, TF 1-171 GSAB Flight Surgeon
(SEP-OCT). “John never slept, at least that I was ever aware of. He flew approximately 250 hours
during his 9 months in theater and performed over 447 flight physicals, 20 Aero Medical summaries,
and did numerous air evacuation missions from COS Taji.” The SUAAFS Theodore Lyster Flight
Surgeon of the Year Award is presented annually to one Flight Surgeon or Aero Medical Physician
Assistant in the Active or Reserve Component who has made the most significant contribution to
Army Aviation Medicine during the year as observed by his or her fellow Flight Surgeons, Aviators,
or Chain of Command. Strain continues to provide world class support to all aviators and crew-
members if the Georgia Army National Guard. He serves fulltime through Joint Forces Headquarters
as the Medical Systems Proficiency Officer. “I am particularly proud to receive this award as it rep-
resents the support I received from my chain of command and medical team subordinates while de-
ployed. It is especially satisfying to receive it here at NGAGA before my wife and fellow Georgia
Guardsmen,” said Strain.
The 1-171st GSAB’s 333 pilots and aircrew members flew over 25,000 hours performing Aero Medi-
cal Evacuation missions, Soldier and cargo transport missions, and Command Aviation Transport
throughout Iraq. “None of this would have been possible if not for Maj. John Strain and his team’s
efforts to ensure the air crew members were healthy and legal to fly,” said Lt. Col. Dwayne Wilson,
Commander of 1-171st GSAB. “This year was much bigger for me than just the deployment. My
twins were born 15 weeks early and just days prior to my deployment. I would not have had a suc-
cessful deployment without the peace of mind that my family had support from Georgia Guardsmen
like Col. Tom Carden, Col. Harve Romine and other co-workers back home,” said Strain. “Fellow
Guardsmen would stop what they were doing to go and pray with my family or provide support. So
this deployment was a Georgia Guard success story due to the support I felt both here in Georgia
and deployed in Iraq. So this award is theirs as much as it is mine.”
Congrats John on receiving this prestigious award!
S A P A J O U R N A L
“The conference
theme was,
“Connecting Future
Leaders to 2020,”
focusing on
presentations and
dialogue which
addressed future
challenges and issues
for 2020.”
P A G E 1 4
Iron Majors Invade Washington D.C.
From 26-30 March, the Army Medical Specialist Corps held the third annual Iron Majors
Week at the Bolger Conference Center in Potomac, MD. The conference theme was,
“Connecting Future Leaders to 2020,” focusing on presentations and dialogue which
addressed future challenges and issues for 2020. Army PAs selected as Iron Majors and
attending the conference included MAJ Stephen Delellis, MAJ Bill Soliz, MAJ Amy Jack-
son, and MAJ Dawn Orta. Below is a short synopsis of the week’s activities.
Monday- Opening remarks were delivered by the current Corps Chief, COL Theresa
Schneider. In addition, telephonic conversations occurred with the Assistant Corps
Chiefs. This event was followed by a tour of Capitol Hill with a briefing by congressional
staffers. The evening concluded with a dinner at COL Ellison’s home. This event was
attended by several retired SP Corps members to include COL (R) Lou Smith.
Tuesday- The day began with a brief by COL Kevin Galloway, Pain Management Task
Force, and R2D, which focused on a discussion on pain management. This was followed
by a leader panel made up of active, reserve, and retired members of the Corps. The
purpose was to provide an educational dialogue between the Iron Majors and past and
present senior Corps leaders. Following this panel, MAJ Cisneroz (Corps XO) and CPT
Kocher ( ) transported the Iron Majors to the Pentagon for a discussion with COL Lor-
rie Breen (65C), Chief of Staff for Health Affairs and COL David Sproat (61H), Senior
Staff Officer, ASA M&RA. These senior officers presented an overview of their posi-
tions while highlighting challenges, strategic issues, and skill sets required and acquired
for their positions. The evening ended with the Iron Majors Awards Dinner. The
guest speaker was Dr. Jonathan Woodson, Assistant Secretary of Defense, Health Af-
fairs, who delivered a thought-provoking and stimulating presentation on the Military
Health System of 2020. He focused on three approaches to training for the future of
peace operations and warfare to include unit level, organizational level, and federal
level.
S A P A J O U R N A L
“The Iron Majors
visited the White
House and was hosted
by White House PA
MAJ James Jones.
While visiting the
White House, the
Majors were surprised
by a visit from the
Obama family dog
Bo.”
P A G E 1 5
Iron Majors Invade Washington D.C.
Wednesday- The Iron Majors visited the White House and was hosted by White House
PA MAJ James Jones. While visiting the White House, the Majors were surprised by a
visit from the Obama family dog Bo. Next, they met COL John Kent (65C), Special
Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. COL Kent
provided an overview of the VA as well as provided insight into his duties.
Thursday/Friday- The Iron Majors received several presentations from the staff of the
Rehabilitation and Reintegration Division, HP&S, OTSG. This included an overview of
the Soldier Medical Readiness Campaign and R2D initiatives, review of TBI, and COL
Ellison provided a new block of instruction on the “Art of Influence,” This block re-
quired reading the book Anatomy of Peace by the Arbinger Institute and is a recom-
mended reading by LTG Horoho, Army Surgeon General. This was followed by a dis-
cussion on behaviors, beliefs and the art of influencing others.
The final presentation of the week was presented by Ms. Kathy Moekler from the Na-
tional Military Family Association discussing the purpose of the organization.
The overall response from attendees was very positive. If you are a leader within the
SP Corps ensure you nominate worthy candidates for selection and recognition during
next year’s Iron Major Awards.
Photos and information courtesy of Army Medical Specialist Corps Connection Newsletter
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 1 6
“It is the
elephant in the
room that
nobody wants to
talk about, but
everybody knows
is there. So let's
take a look at
it.”
Army PA Promotions, What’s Happening?
S A P A J O U R N A L
By Major Pat O’Neil, Deputy Director, Center for Predeployment Medicine (CPDM)
With the recent release of the LTC promotion list, and the previous release of the FY 11
MAJ promotion list, many PA's I meet have the same questions: What has happened to the
promotions and what is our future going to be? For many officers that are mid-careerists,
with families, this seems to be a very uncertain time. This lack of certainty naturally leads to
some apprehension and anxiety. This article will attempt to look at how we arrived at this
point, and what the current statistics are within our career field.
Bottom Line Up Front: In my opinion, this is the single most important issue facing our ca-
reer field today. It is the 25-meter target that is staring us in the face and is getting closer
each year, and it is not going away. It is the elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk
about, but everybody knows is there. So let's take a look at it.
Fifteen years ago, the PA career field looked very different. Most PA's were former enlisted
members with multiple years of service. It was not uncommon to see a few E-8s and nu-
merous E-7s being accepted into the IPAP. Upon graduation, the vast majority of these
PA's served out their commitments and stayed in just long enough to retire, usually at the
rank of CPT. Promotions were slower for this group, since they graduated as a 2LT and it
took over four years to make CPT. During that period, the PA field did not have a large
number of Field Grade Officer positions because they simply were not necessary. To be
quite frank, we rarely filled the small number of FG ranks that we did have allotted.
Today, the PA field is very different from those earlier days. The average PA is younger,
with less Time-In-Service upon graduation from the IPAP. They are promoted more quick-
ly, usually to 1LT soon after graduation. We have PA's students coming straight from
ROTC, with literally no TIS upon arrival to the IPAP. We have officers from other AOC's
coming into the IPAP, usually at the rank of CPT, and sometimes even MAJ. These two
groups are looking at 20+ year careers and expect to reach the ranks of LTC or COL if
they do an entire career. In short, the days of having FG ranks going unfilled are over.
We also noticed that PA's are not leaving the Army at the normal attrition rate that we
previously experienced. This can be attributed to two things: 1) We are an Army at war
and many stayed for patriotic reasons. 2) The Critical Skills Retention Bonus, and subse-
quent Special Pay, enticed many PA's to stay in longer than they normally would have.
P A G E 1 7
“Our promotion
rates are lower
than the
DOPMA
standard, and we
have not even
started the
drawdown yet.”
Promotion Quagmire
S A P A J O U R N A L
Another factor affecting this situation is that during this conflict, we grew our numbers. As
the Army increased the numbers of BCTs to fight the war, the 65D's also increased propor-
tionally. We are more numerous than we have ever been, at a time when the Army is
looking at down-sizing in the coming years.
So where do we stand as a career field? What is our current situation?
1. We are authorized 805 PA's, with 1,029 on-hand; which puts us at 127% strength.
2. We are 108% strength at CPT; 168% at MAJ; and 120% at LTC. (Current with the latest
promotion list subtractions from MAJ and additions to LTC)
3. FY 11 selection rate for MAJ was 60% in the Primary Zone (Defense Officer Personnel
Management Act rate is targeted at 80%)
4. FY 12 selection rate for LTC was 45% in the Primary Zone (DOPMA rate is 70%)
5. We lose approximately 50-60 personnel annually due to normal attrition.
6. We can expect to lose 50 positions during the pending post-war drawdown.
*NOTE: This information was supplied by HRC and is changing on a constant basis, so
numbers fluctuate slightly every month.
In short, we find our career field over strength in total numbers, and specifically in the Field
Grade ranks. Our promotion rates are lower than the DOPMA standard, and we have not
even started the drawdown yet. For the first time ever, we find ourselves over strength at
the rank of LTC. In the next few years, we will fill our authorized COL ranks to their full
capacity of three personnel. Obtaining additional FG authorizations is not an easy task at
all. To gain an additional FORSCOM Field Grade authorization, another AOC has to give
up one of their precious ranks. During a drawdown, not too many AOCs are willing to give
up Field Grade ranks. There has been some success in obtaining some 65X and O5A posi-
tions, but it has amounted to less than 10 positions at the Field Grade ranks.
The current perception in the field is that promotions will only be getting more difficult to
obtain. With looming large numbers of PA's still remaining in their respective year groups,
this perception may be true. Promotions will become more competitive, requiring the indi-
vidual PA to take an even greater responsibility of their career path and future promotion
possibilities.
P A G E 1 8
“There is also a
perception that
to get promoted,
one must go the
command route
and not stay
clinical.”
Promotion Quagmire
S A P A J O U R N A L
Mid-careerists are starting to ask if there is a future in the Army as a PA. In previous years,
this question would have been answered with a resounding, "yes." Today, that question is
not easily answered. You have to look at the size of your year group, your assignments,
your OERs, ORB, and entire promotion picture. The days of being guaranteed promotion
and a career as a PA are over- 40% of CPTs were passed over for promotion on the last
MAJ promotion board. That is a pretty dramatic statistic when you consider the DOPMA
rate is 80% for promotion to MAJ.
There is also a perception that to get promoted, one must go the command route and not
stay clinical. My personal opinion is this should not be the message we send out. When
PA's were created, they were Warrant Officers. Their only mission in life was to take care
of Soldiers and their dependents. This is what the Army wanted PA's to do and why the
career field was created in the first place. I would hate to see the day when we tell our
PA's that if they want to get promoted, they must command or be left behind. Unfortu-
nately, this is the perception that currently exists. In my opinion, there should be a normal
career progression within FORSCOM for Battalion, Brigade, Division, and Corps PA's.
They should not have to leave the clinical side of the house to search out company com-
mands at CPT, FST at MAJ, and battalion command at LTC; yet, that is the current percep-
tion that exists within the force.
What are the possible solutions to fix the current situation?
1. If we cannot get a significant increase in FG authorizations, should we return to the
previous model of IPAP accessions? Should we bring in only small amounts of applicants
with limited TIS that might actually make it to the FG ranks? The majority of the applicants,
with 8-10 years of TIS, would leave at the rank of CPT and junior MAJ. This would help
shape the future, but it would have minimal impact in alleviating the near term problem.
2. Should we stop civilian accessions? We currently accept five per year.
3. Should we put requirements/limits capping the rank at which somebody can apply to the
IPAP? Should we accept Sr. CPTs or MAJs from other AOCs when we are already over
strength at those ranks?
P A G E 1 9
“Should we offer
early CSRB/
Special Pay
contract
releases, without
penalty, to those
in the ranks of
MAJ? This is
where we are
most over
strength, so that
is the group that
should be
targeted.”
Promotion Quagmire
S A P A J O U R N A L
4. Should we offer early CSRB/Special Pay contract releases, without penalty, to those in
the ranks of MAJ? This is where we are most over strength, so that is the group that
should be targeted. This would ease the near term burden and open up more positions for
those CPTs coming into the zone of promotion.
5. Attempting to get higher FG rank structure from FORSCOM. Corps PA's should be
COL's, Div PA's should be LTCs, Brigade PA's should be MAJs, and Bn PA's should be
CPTs.
6. Early retirement targeted at MAJ and LTC to decrease the percent over strength and
open up future promotion opportunities for those coming into the zone.
Obviously, this problem is complex and serious. The remedies to rectify this problem will
not come easily and quickly; and many PA's will be faced with these issues. While the lead-
ership does what they can to rectify this problem, the best advice for the individual PA is to
prepare. You cannot afford to be an ostrich, burying your head in the sand and pretending
the problem does not exist. Ensure you have done everything possible to give yourself the
best possible opportunity to get promoted. Work with Human Resources Command to
shape your career assignments and make you more competitive for promotion. Ensure
your individual ORB, OERs, and promotion board file are accurate. After all, it is your ca-
reer and nobody will take care of it better than you will.
The editor agrees with the majority of this article. However, I may be biased as a commander. I
believe and promotion results have demonstrated that regardless of what the “Old Guard” may be-
lieve- the Army values successful command amongst all Army leaders. PAs have been very successful
without command, but as competition increases command will be one promotion discriminator. As
commissioned officers, PAs are not only paid to provide care but to be leaders. Other members of
the Army medical community to include doctors, nurses, allied health care professionals, and medical
planners all compete for highly sought after commands. It makes them more competitive for promo-
tion in an Army culture that values command. These positions are seldom within the clinics or aid
stations. To deny the provider and her followers of this opportunity to excel as a leader would be
detrimental to the Army. PAs are leading in multiple arenas and are impacting the Army at a level
that would be impossible without our personnel moving up the ladder into command. Although,
staff PAs at brigade, division, corps, and higher levels impact strategic planning and policy through
recommendations only leaders make operational/strategic decisions. These leaders are commanders.
P A G E 2 0
“Should we offer
early CSRB/
Special Pay
contract
releases, without
penalty, to those
in the ranks of
MAJ? This is
where we are
most over
strength, so that
is the group that
should be
targeted.”
O-5 Selections Plummet to Lowest Rate in Decade
S A P A J O U R N A L
The following article was written by Jim Tice, staff writer for the Army Times.
The primary zone select rate for basic-branch promotions to lieutenant colonel has dipped
below 83 percent for the first time in more than a decade. The sharp decline in the Army
Competitive Category select rate produced by the fiscal 2012 lieutenant colonel board was
predicted by Army leaders, but nevertheless is a shocker given the average primary zone
rate of 94 percent for 2001 through 2011. A review of statistics produced by the ACC O-5
board that adjourned March 8 shows that 1,166 officers, or 82.8 percent of the 1,407 ma-
jors in the primary zone, were recommended for promotion. That compares to a PZ rate
of 93.1 percent in 2011, and the record setting rates of 97.7 percent in 2005 and 98 percent
in 2006 when the Army was undergoing a major force expansion. Army Chief of Staff Gen.
Raymond T. Odierno predicted the promotion slowdown early this year when he said se-
lection opportunity would decline as the Army sought to properly size and shape officer
cohorts for the coming drawdown. Selection opportunity is a term defined in the federal
law governing officer personnel management. The selection opportunity standard for lieu-
tenant colonel is 80 percent. Selection opportunity is calculated by dividing the number of
primary zone candidates by the total number of above zone, primary zone and below zone
officers recommended by a promotion board. During the years 2001 through 2011 O-5
selection opportunity 107.5 percent. Selection opportunity for the 2012 board was 94.8
percent, with 1,166 officer being picked up for promotion from the primary zone, 132 from
the below zone category and only 36 from the above-zone cohort. The primary zone for
the 2012 board included majors of the Maneuver, Fires and Effects, Operations Support and
Force sustainment functional categories with O-4 dates of rank of April 1, 2006 through
Sept. 30, 2006. Majors with DOR in fiscal 2007 competed from below the zone category.
Aug. 1 promotions to lieutenant colonel completed the fiscal 2011 ACC list. Promotions
off the new list cannot be scheduled until the roster is confirmed by the Senate.
The ACC had an 82.8% primary zone selection to LTC. This is the worse pro-
motion rate in a decade. Army PAs had a primary zone promotion rate to LTC
of 45%. We are the most deployed AMEDD officers and are at the tip of the
spear of military medical care. Yet, we have been rewarded with the likely the
worst promotion rate of all Army officers. What a great way to retain the
Army’s greatest medical force multiplier.
P A G E 2 1
"I often like to
tell folks,
“consider
position before
location if you
have that
luxury.”
PAs take Non Traditional Positions
Courtesy, MAJ Amy Jackson, HRC
Army (AC/compo 1) Physician Assistants have entered uncharted territory: we’ve hit an all
time high in strength numbers and our year groups are healthy, in some cases too healthy.
Our promotion rates are not at all where we would like them to be, however we do con-
tinue to pick up roughly the same number of folks every board. With the downsizing of the
Army, we will take a hit in our objective force model, primarily because our authorized
seats will reduce somewhere in the neighborhood of 100 seats (from what can be projected
at this point in time). It is safe to assume that this too will further degrade our promotion
rates.
The question is, how do we maintain a competitive edge in a downsizing Army? There are
several solutions and/or goals you can set for yourself to advance your career. One that I
will discuss in this article is position. I often like to tell folks, “consider position before lo-
cation if you have that luxury”. Stand by for last notice opportunities by having an ORB/
recent quality DA Photo at the ready for hand off to a potential new boss. Great opportu-
nities can be snatched up at your current location if you have a solid reputation and meet
or exceed the criteria for a job.
What kind of positions am I talking about? First let me tell you about what some current
65D’s are doing or getting ready to do:
CSL Principle Select for M5A Medical Operations Battalion Command: LTC Tom Schu-
macher (FY13)
FST Commander: MAJ John Detro and MAJ Cleve Sylvester
DCO: LTC Richard Villarreal
Deputy DCCS, Germany: MAJ Karl Kisch
Rear D/BCT/WTU Surgeon’s (several)
Clinical OIC/DEPT Chief : LTC Kohji Kure, MAJ Michael Davidson, MAJ Erin Stibral, MAJ/P
Rob Heath, MAJ John Knight, MAJ Sean Foster, MAJ Roger Ball, MAJ Doug McKnight, CPT
Jody Dunkley
T&E OIC: MAJ Joe Dominguez
TC Command Surgeon: LTC Larry France, MAJ Brian Burk
IG: LTC Rich Ares, MAJ/P Leslie Randolph-Moss
Recruiting BN XO (MAJ Chris Georgiana)
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 2 2
"There are no
absolutes in this
business; there is
no certain path
to success. The
best
recommendation
I can provide
from an HR
point of view is
to be part of the
solution, never
the problem.”
PAs take Non Traditional Positions
Recruiters: CPT Valerie Watkins, CPT Tina Koile
ADC to TSG: MAJ Scott Baumgartner
CPET: LTC Pam Roof
Company Commands: CPT Andrew McPhie, CPT David Molina, CPT Steven Hurtle, CPT/P
Rory Saliger, CPT John Donoughe, CPT Chris Ruggiero
FORSCOM (65X): MAJ Leonard Mason
HRC can only let a certain number of folks step outside the 65D authorizations to do non-
AOC business. Our FORSCOM mission takes first priority and all those foxholes must be
filled 100% at all times. These people actively pursued these jobs and were successful in
their nomination and selection. I realize some of these jobs are non-clinical and that may
not be appealing to some. If you take two officers and stack them up against each other:
each is a superstar in his own right (his OERs are fabulous, his DA photo demonstrates a
proud, pleasant and dedicated Soldier and officer, his ORB reflects those accomplishments
that are supported by documentation in his OMPF). Now let’s take a look at the assign-
ment history. One has company command or OIC of a clinic along with all their Physician
Assistant time. The other has Physician Assistant title throughout all of their assignments.
Which officer brings more wealth of experience to the table, which one decided to step
outside the comfortable clinical and/or operational lane and take the risks of gaining a new
big Army perspective?
There are no absolutes in this business; there is no certain path to success. The best rec-
ommendation I can provide from an HR point of view is to be part of the solution, never
the problem. Be a team player and always do the best you can wherever you are; seek to
be an indispensable asset to your organization above and beyond what is expected of you
and be watchful for those rare opportunities to come your way. When they do, be ready
to take them full on and admirably represent your fellow PA’s and the SP Corps.
MAJ Amy Jackson, SP, MPAS, HRC Deputy Branch Chief and 65D Assignment Officer
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 2 3
Fort Carson STRATCOM
In early November, senior physician assistant leaders will meet
at Fort Carson, Colorado. The goal of the conference is to de-
velop a strategic plan for the next 10 years.
Topics to be covered include the following:
Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) selection and
training
Promotions– how to make PAs competitive
MTOE /TDA authorizations and how to increase Field Grade
positions
Assignments to include traditional and non traditional (05A,
65X, etc.)
Future of the Army PA– Leader and Clinician
Long Term Health Education and Training (LTHET) selection,
training, and utilization, balancing losses and gains
Conducting research, research training, and utilization tours
Developing a sustainable Mentorship Program
Other topics to be determined
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 2 4
Society of Army Physician Assistants Dedicates
Painting to Womack Army Medical Center
On July 17th, 2012, representatives of the Society of Army Physician Assistants (SAPA) as
well as several active duty physician assistants, retirees and Interservice Physician Assistant
Program (IPAP) students gathered at Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) at Fort
Bragg, North Carolina to dedicate a painting on behalf of all military physician assistants.
The painting, a grand 4’ x 5’ oil on canvas original, was a gift presented to SAPA by the art-
ist and long- time friend and supporter, Stewart Wavell-Smith, during its annual medical
conference in Fayetteville, North Carolina in April 2012. The painting is a depiction of mili-
tary physician assistants including several current SAPA members, performing their duties
during combat operations and humanitarian missions in recent years. Because SAPA is a
large organization, with members spread through the world, SAPA’s membership elected to
dedicate the painting to WAMC where it could be displayed in recognition of all military
physician assistants and be seen and enjoyed by the patients and staff of WAMC and Fort
Bragg. The painting is now located near the Hall of Heroes, on the ground floor of WAMC
and can be visited daily.
Left to Right: MAJ George Barbee, LTC Sherry Womack,
MAJ Winnie Paul, MAJ Robert Heath and MAJ Michele Curtis.
Colonel Brian T. Canfield, Womack Army Medical Center out-going commander, began
the dedication ceremony at with warm remarks about his long standing working relation-
ship with military physician assistants and how much he personally appreciated their service
and contributions to military medicine worldwide. He expressed his support for the physi-
cian assistant profession, SAPA, physician assistant leadership and the IPAP. Colonel Can-
field then thanked several of the attendees directly for their dedication to WAMC.
S A P A J O U R N A L
“Colonel Canfield
then thanked
several of the
attendees directly
for their
dedication to
WAMC..”
P A G E 2 5
Society of Army Physician Assistants Dedicates
Painting to Womack Army Medical Center
SAPA active duty representative, Major Winnie E. Paul, then thanked the attendees for
their support of SAPA and for their continued dedication to the Army Specialist Corps.
United States Forces Command, senior physician assistant, Lieutenant Colonel Sherry L.
Womack, former SAPA president, then spoke about her friendship with the artist and his
praise for the work military physician assistants do where ever US military personnel serve.
Lieutenant Colonel Womack thanked Colonel Canfield for his support of Army physician
assistants and thanked all of the physician assistants in attendance for their dedication and
service to the military. She acknowledged the often dangerous working environments, long
hours and frequent tasks military physician assistants face and affirmed their value to all who
wear a United States military uniform as well as the countless local populations served
wherever the United States military deploys.
Left to Right: COL Brian Canfield, LTC Sherry Womack, MAJ Michele Curtis,
MAJ George Barbee, MAJ Winnie Paul, CPT Manuel Menendez, MAJ Erin Stibral,
MAJ Robert Heath, MAJ Amelia Duran-Stanton and LCDR Erwin Fish.
She went on to point out that while not all PAs are depicted in the painting, it represents
the service of every military physician assistant, past, present and future.
At the conclusion of remarks the painting was unveiled by US Public Health Service, Lieu-
tenant Commander Irwin Fish and Army Major Michele Curtis. All ceremony attendees
then gathered in front of the painting to commemorate the occasion. The painting proudly
represents military physician assistants and is dedicated to the military member, families and
retirees served by all military physician assistants throughout the world.
S A P A J O U R N A L
“Colonel Womack
thanked Colonel
Canfield for his
support of Army
physician assistants
and thanked all of
the physician
assistants in
attendance for
their dedication
and service to the
military.”
P A G E 2 6
Society of Army Physician Assistants Dedicates
Painting to Womack Army Medical Center
Oil painting by Artist Stewart Wavell-Smith
Colonel Brian Canfield, Hospital Commander, Womack Army Medical Center,
speaks to dedication ceremony attendees before unveiling painting.
S A P A J O U R N A L
“I reminded them
of their
responsibility to
uphold the stellar
values, principles
and performance
of their
predecessors and
their need to push
the PA and Army
PA medical
profession to the
next level.”
P A G E 2 7
A Great Day to Be a Soldier
On 10 May, I traveled to Fort Campbell, Kentucky. That evening, COL (R) Don
Black hosted a barbeque for the graduates at his beautiful new home. I was able to
meet the graduating and current IPAP students and reconnect with old friends such
as MAJ (P) Jim Beecher, current Phase II IPAP Coordinator. The following morning,
I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to pin an Impact Army Achievement
Medal on my daughter Xaviera Roberts. In addition, I had the honor and pleasure
of being the guest speaker for the Blanchfield Army Community Hospital IPAP 2-12
graduating class.
The day of 11 May began with an end of week safety briefing outside the 4th BCT
headquarters building (Curahee), where my daughter was recognized for her impact
on the most recently completed field training exercise. Following the ceremony, I
took her shopping for a new ASU uniform so she would be ready for the upcoming
Warrior Leader Course (WLC).
That evening, I spoke to the newest members of the Army Medical Specialist Corps.
My message was simple and reflected on my principles for being a successful military
leader, family man, and medical provider. I gave the students five areas to concen-
trate on during their careers and life to include taking care of the mission, taking
care of Soldiers, taking care of patients, taking care of your family, and taking care of
yourself. My message to the graduates was straightforward– take care of these five
areas and they will be successful in everything they do. I told them they have shifted
from being the future of Army PAs to the present and folks like myself are now the
past. I reminded them of their responsibility to uphold the stellar values, principles
and performance of their predecessors and their need to push the PA and Army
PA medical profession to the next level. The highlight of the ceremony was the first
commissioned salute ceremony in which each graduate was saluted by a person of
influence with this individual receiving the traditional gold coin.
The evening was completed with a senior PA get-together at the Blackhorse Bar
and Grill. It was a great night with many of Fort Campbell’s best in attendance.
What an outstanding way to end a great day! S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 2 8
Fort Bragg IPAP Highlights
On 18 May, I was honored to speak at the Womack Army Medical Center IPAP 2-
10 Class graduation. The four students established a pattern of excellence for
those who follow them. I gave virtually the same speech as the one given the week
before at Fort Campbell. The graduate ceremony included the commissioning cere-
mony, physician assistant oath, presentation of awards to top preceptor and precep-
tor clinic, and the awarding of Army Achievement Medals to the graduates.
During the recent Society of Army PA Conference, Fort Bragg IPAP students and
faculty performed well in the research competition. Below are the results:
1st Place: MAJ Amelia M. Duran-Stanton, ―Just a Click Away: Missed Teachable
Moments in Tobacco Cessation Counseling in Orthopaedic Patients
2nd Place: OC Andrew Allman, Class 2-10, ―HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa
During National PA Week (10 October, 2012), OC Christopher Mueller presented
a beautiful bench to the Stead Center, Duke University, The Duke program was
started by Dr. Stead following the Vietnam Conflict. Dr. Stead saw a need for phy-
sician extenders and felt that the medics of Vietnam possessed the medical skills but
lacked the credentials to fill this void. He started the program with four Navy
Corpsman of which three graduated from that first historic class. OC Mueller or-
ganized this project and developed a fundraising project to make it a reality. Below
is a poster with a picture of this unique gift between Army PAs and to the countries
first PA program.
S A P A J O U R N A L
MAJ John Detro,
240th FST speaks
to IPAP graduates
IPAP graduates,
local PAs, and
WAMC IPAP
leadership
P A G E 2 9
Guess Who!
The picture below was taken in Vietnam 1969. The Soldier carrying the weapon on the
right hand side of the photo was then a Special Forces medic. Today, he is an active duty
physician assistant. Who do you think this could be?
S A P A J O U R N A L
Answer: LTC Earl “Buck” Benson
United States Special Operations Command (USASOC)
SAPA Membership News
P A G E 3 0 V O L . 2 6 , N O . 9 A
The SAPA Leadership would like to thank the following PAs for their service to the US Army and our Nation.
They will leave the military in the next several months. Please wish them luck with their new endeavors.
CPT Wun Augustin MAJ Charles Neal
LTC Garrett Baer CPT Tysen Nicole Norton
CPT Rebecca Bean CPT Maribel Occhiuzzo
CPT Terry Blackwell CPT Jeffery Peacock
CPT Leigh Brown CPT Cheri Ponce
MAJ Michelle Curtis-Jackson MAJ Robert Rather
MAJ Gerald Depold CPT Frank Ritz
CPT (P) Rosalyn Fitzpatrick ` MAJ Denis Robert
MAJ John Frasure MAJ Charles Roberts
MAJ Bonnie Garcia AJ (P) Kathleen Schultz
MAJ Christopher Hintz MAJ Randall Sitz
MAJ Aaron Kidd MAJ Charles Stanley
CPT Nicole Lopez MAJ Wade Swatsworth
CPT Shaina McGordon CPT Sabrina Weatherby
MAJ George Midla
P A G E 3 1
Editor Farewell
Three years ago, I volunteered and began to perform duties as the Society of Army Physi-
cian Assistants (SAPA) newsletter editor. I decided to do so as the newsletter had not
been published for several months after there were no volunteers to replace the previous
editor. I have enjoyed collecting articles for publication along with writing articles myself.
However, it has been difficult to obtain information from those PAs who have retired. For
this reason , the majority of the newsletter has focused on the active duty side as I have
access to this information through numerous sources such as Human Resources Command,
Army Medical Specialist Corps (SP), and open source news articles. In addition, American
Association of Physician Assistant (AAPA) and National Commission on Certification of
Physician Assistant (NCCPA) websites have been invaluable.
I have been successful with improving the newsletter but not to the level that I had hoped.
In addition, I have attempted to utilize the newsletter to stimulate the recruitment of PAs
for membership in SAPA without much success. These are areas I feel the next editor may
be able to improve upon.
I am currently serving as a Forward Surgical Team (FST) Commander and this has taken a
lot of time. Therefore, I have decided to move on from my editorial duties. 1LT Christo-
pher Mueller, a recent graduate of the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) has
volunteered to replace me. Chris performed duties as the website editor for the Fort
Bragg Phase II IPAP site. His site was an excellent source of information for students and
staff alike. He will continue to improve on the SAPA newsletter. Please provide him with
your support through the writing of articles, provision of newsworthy information, pictures,
and other topics that are of interest to active duty, reserve, and retired military physician
assistants.
I have enjoyed my time as the editor and hope to see you all at next years annual SAPA
Conference.
S A P A J O U R N A L
P A G E 3 2
Senior Discount!
From Paul Lowe, SAPA Membership Director
SAPA desires to honor our “more seasoned” military veterans with reduced membership dues or
the ability to purchase an “Indefinite” membership. This benefit is for Federal Service PA’s age 65 or
above. For this category of PA’s, annual dues will be reduced to $15.00 or you can purchase an in-
definite membership for $100.00. This change will take effect 31 July, 2010. Any dues paid at the
regular rate of $25.00 after this date will be credited toward “future dues” or your “indefinite”
membership status. Please email or write at the below listed address to update your membership
status. Signed, Paul W. Lowe, Membership Director.
SAPA
ATTN: Membership Update
P.O. Box 4068
Waynesville, MO. 65583
Or EMAIL: [email protected]
This is an outstanding opportunity for senior PAs to remain active in SAPA even after
retiring from practice.
S A P A J O U R N A L
SAPA OFFICERS SOCIETY OF ARMY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS
P O Box 4680, Waynesville, MO. 65583 Phone-573-528-2307,FAX888-711-8543EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:
Paul W. Lowe, PA-C
Address and phone as above, e-mail - [email protected]
Page: http://www.sapa.org (Webmaster: Orie Potter)
PRESIDENT Frank Piper, Col, Ret, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected] PRESIDENT ELECT
Sherry L. Womack, LTC, SP, PA-C E-mail: [email protected]
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Steven Briggs, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected] SECRETARY
Karen McMillan, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected]
TREASURER James L.C. Miller, PA-C
E-mail - [email protected] DIRECTOR, ACTIVE DUTY ARMY PAs
Maj Winnie Paul, PA-C E-mail: [email protected]
DIRECTOR, US ARMY NATIONAL GUARD PAS Nolan Wright, CPT, PA-C Texas Army National Guard
E-mail: [email protected]
DIRECTOR, US ARMY RESERVE PAS Tonya Moore, LTC, PA-C
E-Mail: [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Steven Briggs, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected]
RETIRED COMPONENT DIRECTOR Robert Thompson, Jr. PA-C
E-Mail: [email protected] SAPA CONFERENCE STAFF
CONFERENCE COORDINATOR: Bob Potter, PA-C PO Box 623
Monmouth, IL 61462
SAPA Voice Line: 309-734-5446 Fax: 309-734-4489
E-mail: [email protected]
CONFERENCE REGISTRAR: Bob Potter, PA-C Info for Bob Potter same as immediately above
ASST. CONFERENCE COORDINATOR:
Pat Malone, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected] Karen Reedy, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected]
CO-REGISTRAR: Judy Potter
DECORUM AND MORALE: Nicole Potter
E-mail: [email protected]
SALES AND MARKETING: Stephen Ward, PA-C,
Bob Egbert, PAC,
Tom Matherly, PA-C
MODERATORS/AUDIO/VISUAL: LCDR Irwin Fish, PA-C
SAPA JOURNAL STAFF Editor: Major John F. Detro, MPAS, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected]
COMMITTEES SCHOLARSHIPS/AWARDS
LTC-R Donald Parsons, PA-C (Chair)
COL -R Sherry Morrey, PA-C
CW4-R Marvin W. Cole, PA-C
COL-R Donald Black, SP, PA-C
POC for Captain Sean P. Grimes
Physician Assistant Educational Scholarship Award)
E-mail: [email protected]
SAPA HISTORIAN William Long, PA-C
MINORITY AFFAIRS Karen McMillan, PA-C
PUBLIC EDUCATION Paul Lowe, PA-C
PROFESSIONAL WELLNESS Michael Champion, PA-C
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS Paul Lowe, PA-C
DELEGATES TO AAPA HOUSE OF DELEGATES Frank Piper, PA-C (Chief Delegate)
Sherry L. Womack, PA-C
ACADEMY LIASON COL Pauline Gross, SP, PA-C
E-mail: [email protected]
COMMUNICATIONS/ELECTRONICS Stephen Ward, PA-C
Irvin Fish, PA-C
Bob Potter, PA-C The SAPA Journal staff and SAPA Board of Directors encourages
membership participation in this publication. Feel free to use this
forum to present your views on any topic you desire. The publication
of clinical articles on any subject is also solicited, however, to reduce
our workload, we do request articles be presented typed, double-
spaced format, and on CD, Microsoft Word format. The editor
reserves the right of final acceptance of articles as well as the right to
serialize articles which are too lengthy to be included in a single issue.
Articles will be accepted via email.
The SAPA Journal is the official publication of the Society of Army
Physician Assistants. The views and opinions expressed herein are not
necessarily those of the editors, SAPA, the SAPA Board of Directors or
the Department of the Army unless explicitly expressed as such.
This is not an official Army Publication.
Irwin Fish, PA-CE-mail: [email protected]
