Fort Stewart held a virtual change of command ceremony, July 16 at Marne Garden on Fort Stewart for the outgoing and incoming Winn Army Community Hospital Commanders.
Outgoing Commander, Col. Michelle Munroe became the first female commander of Winn Army Community Hospital July 13, 2018 and led the hospital's efforts in providing community support though tornados, Hurricane Michael and the coronavirus global pandemic.
Brigadier General Paula C. Lodi, Commanding General Regional Health, said that Col. Munroe transformed WACH into one of the highest performing hospital in the Army’s Medical Command. She spearheaded the building of a new medical simulator training center by renovating WACH to include a state of the art indoor training suite and the ability to train from point of injury to Battalion station.
She oversaw a 30 million in WACH improvements to enhance patient care and expanded green initiatives, resulting in nearly 30 percent of the main hospital operating under solar power reducing energy costs by 14 percent and overall improving operation efficiency.
“The last two years have been incredible,” Col. Munroe said.
Munroe is set to retire after serving in the Army for 30 years. During the ceremony she thanked her husband, who is also a soldier, and her kids for their support throughout the years.
“Thank you for listening and being my number one cheerleader and for always supporting me.”
Col. Julie J. Freeman, a native of St. Mary’s, Pennsylvania, assumed command following her previous assignment as the Assistant Deputy for Medical Affairs, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs); Medical Surgical Department Chief at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
“Fort Stewart was our first choice, Col. Freeman said. “When I attended the pre-command course I had several officers tap me on the shoulders and told me that wanted this hospital, they wanted to be here today. It is the exceptional reputation of the Fort Stewart community, the history of the Third Infantry Division and Winn’s remarkable ability to meet every challenge as one team that sets you apart. I am honored and humbled to join this team.”
