YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Lt. Col. Daniel Gilardi assumed command of the 374th Medical Support Squadron from Lt. Col. Lisa Guzman during a change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 21.

Col. Brad Brough, 374th Medical Group commander, presided over the ceremony and the event was attended by family members of the incoming and outgoing commanders, members of the 374th MDSS, and representatives from across the base.

“We all know that it is not easy to resource a medical group overseas, let alone during a pandemic,” Guzman said. “But your dedication and innovative drive found a way to make it happen. And most importantly, when the pandemic was over, you challenged the status quo, adapted safe practices, and found solutions that make sense.”

Guzman leaves with several noteworthy accomplishments, to include leading the largest squadron in the 374th MDG, with 172 medics across six specialties, powering operations to secure a three-year accreditation from the joint commission. Guzman also drove the delivery of quality and safe medical practices, resulting in an outstanding laboratory accreditation from the college of American pathologists and a flawless certification from the food and drug administration, fueling the group’s record of 600 days with zero safety events.

The change of command ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Roman era, where military leaders would pass a baton, colors, standards, or ensigns that symbolized the passing of command to subordinates in attendance, and ensured unit members were never without official leadership or a continuation of trust.

“To the men and women of the 374th Medical Support Squadron, I couldn’t be more honored to be joining you than I am,” said Gilardi. “I look forward to getting to know each and everyone of you.”

The 374th Medical Support Squadron provides financial, manpower, logistics, information systems, personnel, diagnostic, therapeutic services and training resources for Yokota Air Base personnel and their families.

Photo caption:

Col. Brad Brough, 374th Medical Group Commander, receives a squadron guidon from Lt. Col. Lisa Guzman during a change of command ceremony for the 374th Medical Support Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 21, 2023. Lt. Col. Daniel Gilardi assumed command of the 374th MDSS from Guzman. The change of command ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Roman era, where military leaders would pass batons, colors, standards, or ensigns that symbolized the passing of command to subordinates in attendance, and ensured unit members were never without official leadership or a continuation of trust.