New ASTS leader ‘excited, energized’ for new command

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Stephen J. Collier
  • 302nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo --  Medical reservists throughout the 302nd Airlift Wing were on hand to witness their squadron’s newest commander take the reins of leadership during an assumption-of-command ceremony at the wing’s Summit Center here, March 5.

Col. Karen B. Steiner assumed command of the 302nd Aeromedical Staging Squadron in front of more than 150 Airmen and guests, receiving the unit’s guidon from 302nd AW commander, Col. James DeVere. Steiner takes command after the previous ASTS commander, Col. (Dr.) Leon Barringer, departed the squadron last fall for his new assignment as the 932nd Medical Group commander at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

DeVere praised Steiner for her previous leadership positions within the ASTS and the 911th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. When determining the next 302nd ASTS leader. DeVere said it came down to two criteria.

“For me, it’s about competence and character,” DeVere said to the audience. “Karen’s competence has always been on display with the unique medical roles she has taken on within the ASTS as well as the 911th (AES). But character is just as important, and the glowing references from colleagues and her previous commanders made the decision for your new squadron commander very easy.”

After the ceremony, Steiner said she was energized and excited to take on the challenges of command.

“I’m most excited to get to know the members of the squadron,” Steiner said. “I can already tell this squadron is a group of fantastic people. This is only my second UTA and I already feel like I’ve connected with them. I’m humbled and honored to have been selected for this important position and I look forward to continue moving our squadron in a positive direction. I’m definitely energized and excited to be a part of this squadron.”

Staff Sgt. Ojie Laguatan, a medical logistician within the squadron, said he was intrigued by Steiner’s mantra of leading right beside ASTS members.

“Her whole idea of being right beside us really resonated with me,” said Laguatan. “Most of the time, leaders think about leading from the front, but she also said she’d be right beside us, in the dogfight with us. She has a ton of experience, so I’m looking forward to seeing how we all go forward strategically, especially with our dual missions.”