FORT DRUM, N.Y. (Aug. 20, 2015) -- The Fort Drum U.S. Army Medical Department Activity welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony Aug. 12.
Col. Matthew Mattner relinquished command to Col. John McMurray during the ceremony, which was hosted by Brig. Gen. Robert Tenhet, Regional Health Command - Atlantic (Provisional) commander.
During the ceremony, Tenhet recognized Mattner's work at the Fort Drum MEDDAC -- efforts such as improving patient satisfaction throughout the MEDDAC.
"Patient satisfaction for this MEDDAC has improved 200 percent during (Mattner's) tenure -- the highest in the Atlantic Region," he said.
Tenhet also pointed out Mattner's efforts in safety, saying that the Fort Drum MEDDAC was the first in the Atlantic Regional to earn the Army Safety and Health Management System Gold Star, "setting the standard for safety."
The Fort Drum model of care is different from most Army installations as there is no on-post hospital.
Tenhet said the model of care that Mattner developed at Fort Drum is the future of Army Medicine, highlighting the MEDDAC's strong relationships with area hospitals and medical practices that provide quality health care for Soldiers, Family Members and retirees in the area.
Mattner said that all of the accomplishments the MEDDAC has achieved would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the staff.
"The (MEDDAC) team is patient-centered, doing all they can for America's sons and daughters serving our nation, for their Families and for our retirees," he said. "They have implemented numerous changes that refined and improved systems and processes improving efficiency that ultimately led to higher quality of care and expanded communication with our patients and with each other."
Mattner went on to say that he leaves the MEDDAC with a heavy heart, but he is "consoled in my departure knowing that the MEDDAC will be under the command of Col. John McMurray. … I couldn't have chosen a better person to command the MEDDAC."
Mattner has long said that he wanted to come to Fort Drum and lead the MEDDAC here. In leaving, he said that this has been his best assignment.
"It has been an honor and privilege to serve with (the Soldiers and Civilians of the Fort Drum MEDDAC). I can honestly say this was my best assignment. I will certainly remember and cherish our accomplishments. You made this assignment extraordinary, a wonderful experience, rewarding and memorable. I will always remember and keep you in my heart."
Mattner will retire from the Army after more than 27 years of service to the nation.
Tenhet said McMurray takes command of the Fort Drum MEDDAC during a period of challenging times ahead, adding he is well-equipped to lead the organization.
"Col. McMurray, you join us during a time of transition," he said. "This is a challenging and exciting time for the organization, the Army and military medicine as we realign with the Army Corps.
"Your vast experience as a staff member and leader will serve you well as the Fort Drum MEDDAC commander," Tenhet continued. "I have no doubt you will continue to provide quality support to the finest men and women anyone could have the honor of serving. I look forward to watching you lead this fine organization."
McMurray comes to Fort Drum after having served as the chief of staff and G3 for the Pacific Medical Region, Honolu.
He said he looks forward to leading the Fort Drum MEDDAC, and he thanked Tenhet for the opportunity. McMurray went on to say that he and his Family are happy to be in the North Country and to serve the community.
"Thank you for this incredible opportunity to lead this outstanding organization," he said. "Trish and I are very excited to serve the Soldiers, Families, veterans and wounded warriors of the Fort Drum community."
Social Sharing