Medical Airmen receive top honors

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Allison Day
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Three Misawa Airmen from the 35th Medical Group were selected as Air Force-level winners in their field last week.

Senior Airman Lottie Stewart, Master Sgt. Kelly Stefan and Lt. Col. Danny Wong were recognized in front of members of the hospital staff Feb. 3.

Airman Stewart, a dental assistant with the 35th Dental Squadron, was shocked when she was notified, but honored that she was selected.

"I feel as though I've been trained by the best, so I'm thankful to my mentors for all that I have accomplished," said the 22 year-old Houston, Texas native who works primarily in pediatric dentistry. "Being here at Misawa has done wonders for me, and I plan on making the Air Force a career."

Sergeant Kelly, the TRICARE operations and patient administration flight chief, was humbled about his selection, he said.

"I was so thankful that my leadership had taken the time and effort to put me in for this honor," said the Air Force veteran of 22 years.

The Indianapolis, Ind., native enjoys working with young Airmen. He especially enjoys seeing his Airmen's reactions when they've done a good job and can witness the outcome, he said.

As the clinical dentistry flight commander for the 35th DS, Colonel Wong's area of expertise is periodontics, which deals with the care and treatment of tissue surrounding the teeth.

"I really like being able to help people whether it is patients with their oral health, co-workers, or the base community," said Colonel Wong. "My role in the dental squadron has definitely given me that opportunity."

According to the colonel who hails from Antioch, Calif., he could definitely think of some friends, mentors, and co-workers in his Air Force career, who could have received this award as well.

"This award, said Colonel Wong, in my eyes, is a true reflection of the great dental team I work with here at Misawa." said Colonel Wong.

Although the individuals received these awards, their success is shared by the entire medical group.

"The hospital is filled with outstanding personnel and we are really proud of these Airmen who were selected as Air Force-level winners," said Col. Guillermo Tellez, 35th MDG commander. "It is an indication of how hard they've worked and an incredible accomplishment on their part."