Modern warfare demands not just technological innovation but also a holistic approach to preparing military personnel. The Patrick Space Force Base has introduced a groundbreaking program, the Operational Support Team (OST), which focuses on improving physical and mental resilience among Airmen and Guardians through an embedded, multidisciplinary strategy.
The OST comprises a four-person team of specialists, including medical professionals, fitness experts, psychologists, and dieticians, who embed within units for four to eight months. This immersion allows them to work closely with military members, understanding their daily challenges and implementing targeted health initiatives.
Janet Carman, a specialist with the 45th Medical Group, explains, ‘We start with an anonymous questionnaire to uncover concerns, which guides our focus areas.’ This approach addresses issues such as stress, burnout, and physical readiness, which are critical given the evolving nature of modern conflict, including artificial intelligence and unconventional tactics.
The program emphasizes collaboration, with team members working directly alongside personnel to ensure practical, real-world improvements. For instance, strength and conditioning specialists develop personalized exercise routines, while physical therapists assist in injury rehabilitation. A licensed dietician educates on nutrition and healthy eating habits, vital for maintaining energy and focus.
Beyond physical health, mental well-being is a cornerstone of the OST. Clinical psychologists provide tools for stress management and work-life balance, helping personnel sustain their performance under pressure. This comprehensive approach has already shown positive results, with three embedments leading to notable improvements in physical training scores and a total cost savings of over $15 million across the Air and Space Force units involved.
“Our goal is to develop a resilient, prepared workforce capable of meeting today’s diverse challenges,” Carman states. The initiative not only enhances individual health but also boosts unit cohesion and operational effectiveness, ensuring the force remains ready for future conflicts.
As the military continues to adapt to new threats and demands, programs like the Patrick SFB OST highlight the importance of integrating human performance into strategic readiness, proving that technology alone is not enough to secure victory — the people behind the technology are equally critical.
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