Misawa Medical Group celebrates appreciation week

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Patrick S. Ciccarone
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Airmen from the 35th Medical Group celebrated the Annual Air Force Medical Service and Biomedical Sciences Corps Appreciation Week Feb. 10 to 14.

The appreciation week was created to show how important the 18 medical job specialities are to the Air Force mission, 10 of which are represented at Misawa.

In the 1940s the Medical Service Corps contained the majority of the Air Force's medical scientific and technical specialists. As time went on, needs and requirements evolved, and the Biomedical Sciences Corps was officially created as a separate entity from the MSC in 1965.

"The week is set aside to nationally recognize the contribution of the officers and enlisted, along with everyone involved in those 18 different career specialties," said Maj. Stephen Simpson, optometry flight commander for the 35 MDG. "It's to acknowledge them and to give them a spotlight for a few days to highlight and appreciate what we do."

The 35 MDG kicked off the week at the base exchange, where members performed health screenings, blood pressure checks and provided information to BX patrons.

The week-long observance was event-filled with a coffee and donut breakfast on Monday, a mentorship luncheon on Tuesday, a dinner at New Miyaki on Wednesday, an all-units brief on Thursday, and an ice cream social on Friday.

After having a week dedicated solely to recognizing the importance of the work the medical Airmen provide to the Air Force mission, the 35 MDG's conviction is stronger than ever.

"A little bit goes a long way when it comes to appreciation," said Simpson. "You can change someone's outlook or day just by saying 'thank you,' and it certainly doesn't hurt to hand them a cup of coffee and a donut, either."