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Q&A with the new 375th MDSS commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Megan Friedl
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  

Lt. Col. Antonio Love assumed command of the 375th Medical Support Squadron June 16.

 

The 375th MDSS is part of the 375th Medical Group, Air Mobility Command's largest outpatient clinic.  The squadron consists of 10 flights:  Personnel and Administration, Resource Management, Education and Training, TRICARE Operations and Patient Administration, Medical Readiness, Information Management, Pharmacy, Diagnostic Imaging, Laboratory,  and Medical Logistics which includes, regional medical equipment repair, patient movement items and facility management.

In addition, Love oversees a $29 million fiscal program, $28 million in equipment, $32 million for War Reserve Material and $15 million for information system infrastructure in 13 buildings. He is responsible for varied health care management and clinical support missions ensuring effectiveness of training, morale and welfare of staff.

 

What led you to joining the Air Force?

 

I had a desire to serve. My father served in the Air Force for 21 years. From that experience I've always had an affinity to the Air Force. I had no intention of joining the Air Force after I graduated from high school. After finishing graduate school and starting my professional career I felt a void. The void was a desire to serve. Since I made that decision to join the Air Force I have not felt that void.

 

What have been some of your favorite memories in the Air Force?

 

One of my favorite memories is the first opportunity I had to preside over a re-enlistment. Most of my favorite memories all involve celebrating the accomplishments of the Airmen I've been blessed to serve. Having Airmen confirm that they trust and respect what I've tried to stand for, those have been the fondest memories for me. Also, being able to congratulate unexpected Airmen who've been promoted Below the Zone and seeing the excitement from them spill over.

 

What is your leadership philosophy?

 

I am blessed to serve--that is my leadership philosophy. The tenants of my leadership really flow from five prevailing principles: faith, family, freedom, fellowship and fun.

 

What had the greatest impact on your career?

 

Mentors have had a tremendous impact on my career. Not necessarily in my AFSC or my rate chain, but just solid mentors to advise and confide in. Also my family has impacted my career and provided a foundation for me to go out and do what I love to do on a day to day basis.

 

What was your proudest achievement?

 

Being a father is my proudest achievement. I have two boys and four girls, ranging from one to 14 years old.

 

What is something most people don't know about you?

 

I played college football. I was a defensive lineman at Samford University.

 

What can your troops expect from you?

 

They can expect a leader who will tell them the truth, who will hold himself to the same standards of integrity, service and excellence.

 

Who is your hero and why?

 

My dad is my hero. He was present and still has a presence in my life. Not only was he a dad to me and my siblings, he was also a husband to my mother. He modeled what a man is supposed to be.  I would not be the man I am today without his positive example.

 

What is some advice you'd like to give to young Airmen?

 

Have a plan, then work that plan.  Know where you want to go, develop a plan to get there and hold yourself accountable. Find a mentor and share with them what you want. Set high standards. Don't lower or allow anyone to lower  your personal bar.  Don't be afraid to be great!