Show notes
In this special episode, we welcome two distinguished leaders, COL Caryn Vernon and COL Sabrina Thweatt, both serving as Medical Brigade Commanders. They share insights into the challenges and rewards of leadership in Army Medicine, their journey to command, & how they balance high-stakes careers with family life. From leading teams in complex environments to prioritizing personal well-being, these accomplished officers provide invaluable leadership lessons and career advice for aspiring leaders, working parents, and military professionals. A Virginia State University graduate, COL Thweatt holds M.S. degrees in Human Resource Management (University of Maryland University College) and National Resource Strategy (National Defense University). She has served as Chief of Staff, Medical Readiness Command, East, and previously commanded Troop Command, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the 10th Field Hospital, Fort Carson. Her key roles include Deputy G-1, 44th MEDCOM, Chief, Personnel Services (Task Force 44, OIF 08-10, Iraq), J1-Chief, JTF Cap Med, Deputy G-1, Europe Regional Medical Command, Brigade S-1, 30th MED BDE (Germany), and Deputy Commander, Task Force Medical Afghanistan (Bagram). She also served as Executive Assistant to The Surgeon General and CG, U.S. Army Medical Command. Her military education includes AMEDD Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, CGSC, The Eisenhower School, and multiple HR and healthcare administration courses. Her awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Legion of Merit (1OLC), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (4OLC), Army Commendation Medal (7OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2OLC), and multiple campaign and service medals. She is a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit and serves as the 70F Consultant to The Surgeon General. A University of Arizona graduate, COL Vernon earned an M.A. in Health Services Management (Webster University) and an M.S. in Strategic Studies. She has held diverse leadership and operational roles, including Evacuation & Treatment Platoon Leader (261st ASMB, Fort Bragg), XO, 2nd ACR Forward Surgical Team, Commander, C Co, 702nd MSB (Korea), S3, 261st ASMB (OIF 2004-2005), Ops Officer, U.S. Army Special Operations Command Sustainment BDE, J4 Health Service Support Division (Joint Staff), Plans Officer, 1st MED BDE (Fort Hood), Battalion Commander, 232nd MED BN (JBSA-Fort Sam Houston), and Commander, MEDDAC Fort Knox & Ireland Army Health Clinic. She most recently served as Director, Strategic Initiatives Group, Office of The Surgeon General before joining the 44th Medical Brigade. Her military education includes U.S. Air Force Air War College, CGSC, Medical Strategic Leadership Program, and Joint Medical Planners Course. Her awards include the Legion of Merit (2OLC), Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (8OLC), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (4OLC), Army Achievement Medal (4OLC), and various campaign medals. She holds the Expert Field Medical Badge, Parachutist Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge, and Joint Staff Identification Badge. She is a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit and holds the AMEDD 9A Proficiency Designator. COL Vernon is the 70H Consultant to the Army Surgeon General. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with two outstanding commanders!
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are the guests and host’s alone and do not reflect the official position of the Medical Service Corps, the US Army, the Department of War, or the US Government. All information discussed is unclassified approved for public release and found on open cleared sources.
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