EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Behind every diagnosis, deployment clearance and routine check-up at the 96th Medical Group is a team of experts working behind the scenes, analyzing microscopic details that support mission readiness.
From April 20-26, the 96 MDG recognized National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, highlighting the Airmen and civilians who ensure Team Eglin remains healthy, ready and medically sound.
The success of these behind-the-scenes operations relies on cohesive leadership and highly trained personnel.
“Our daily output is the bedrock of medical readiness,” said Lt. Col. Jonathan McClaine, 96 TW laboratory medical director. “Up to 70% of medical decisions are based on laboratory results. We don’t just process samples, we ensure our warfighters are healthy, ready and capable of executing the mission at a moment’s notice.”
That commitment to excellence shows in the lab’s recent accomplishments. Following a rigorous inspection by the College of American Pathologists, the team earned its highest score in eight years, achieving a 99.9% rating across more than 2,000 evaluated standards and placing it among the highest-scoring laboratories in its evaluation group.
“I am extremely proud of this team,” said Maj. Mary Storey, 96 TW clinical laboratory and pathology flight commander. “They operate in a zero-defect environment with quiet professionalism, knowing every sample represents a patient depending on their accuracy.”
Beyond diagnostics, the team builds connection through creativity and collaboration within a 24/7 mission environment. This year’s “Lab Story” themed celebration encouraged personnel to share their experiences through interactive games, scavenger hunts and team-building activities designed to engage every shift.
“These moments are vital,” said Storey. “They build the trust and cohesion we rely on when executing a high-stakes mission behind the scenes.”
For laboratory professionals, the work may often go unseen, but its impact is unmistakable.
“We are the medical detectives of the hospital,” McClaine added. “We take samples and turn them into answers, providing the critical information providers need to diagnose, treat and clear patients for duty.”
As National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week highlights their contributions, the team remains focused on what matters most: delivering precise, timely results that keep Team Eglin ready.