In the oppressive heat of South Georgia, units of soldiers stood at attention last Friday representing U.S. Army Medical Department Activity (MEDDAC)-Fort Stewart. These men and women serve with Winn Army Community Hospital, Tuttle Army Health Clinic and the Warrior Transition Battalion, and were all present for a historic ceremony.
The ceremony, which was held in the Marne Garden on Fort Stewart, was the changing of command for MEDDAC, from current commander Col. Christopher H. Warner to Col. Michelle Munroe.
The Commanding General, Regional Health Command- Atlantic Brig. Gen. Telita Crosland, relinquished Col. Warner of his duties by receiving the colors. She then passed the colors to Col. Munroe to signify her new command.
“I want to thank God for the stars to align and allow me to lead this team,” Col. Munroe said. “You have a reputation of being an excellent team and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Both Munroe and Warner stepped to the podium and remarked on the occasion, with Warner speaking about his time in the position and the certainty that he’s passing it on to very capable hands.
“You’ve been given the opportunity to shape, develop and impact,” he said, speaking to Munroe. “These are superior soldiers, leaders and teammates that run Fort Stewart and Winn.”
The hospital commander, command sergeant major, executive officer, company commander and first sergeant are the first entirely female team to lead Winn Army hospital since it began 36 years ago.
“I think it’s a great thing that women are starting to break those glass ceilings and get into those jobs,” Munroe said. “We all wear the same uniform, and every gender should be given the opportunity to have that role no matter what they are.”