48th MDG launches Wounded Warrior pilot program

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
The 48th Medical Group launched an Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Group pilot program, Oct. 25, to improve the personal well-being and long-term healing of wounded Airmen.

The 10-week program is open to 12 members from Royal Air Forces Mildenhall and Lakenheath. All members were wounded or received traumatic brain injuries in combat or from a hostile force, and suffer post-traumatic stress or from post-traumatic stress disorder.

The current group is a test group and the plan is to continue and improve the program for future wounded warriors, said Sharron O'Garro, 48th MDG case manager and organizer of the evolving program.

An array of speakers and subject-matter experts are scheduled to speak to the wounded warriors over the next 10 weeks. The meetings will be hosted by the RAF Lakenheath Airman and Family Readiness Center.

Some topics covered will be emotional regulation, anger, sleep hygiene, relationships, community readiness, fundamentals of change and positive thinking, PTSD, and mental health management.

The wounded warriors are also scheduled for a teleconference with the Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, Wounded Warrior Program.

"Our main focus is on the wounded warriors," said O'Garro. "We're here to educate them, help them heal and make sure they receive professional support and care from the time they're injured or identified as a wounded warrior, through separation, retirement and the rest of their lives."

Once identified as a wounded warrior, Airmen are assigned an individual advocate at the Air Force Personnel Center at Randolph Air Force Base, and personalized services and counseling through the nearest A&FRC.

According to the AFW2 Public Affairs office, there's no difference in care provided for active duty, Guard or Reserve Airmen.

"We will expedite the medical evaluation process if a wounded warrior chooses to separate from active duty," states the AFW2 website. "Strong emphasis is placed on ensuring wounded Airmen receive professional, individualized guidance and support to help them successfully navigate their way through the complex process of transitioning out of the Air Force and returning to civilian life."