Meet the commander - Lt. Col. Christopher Bird

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Christopher Bowyer-Meeder
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
It is not uncommon for someone to join the Air Force for one reason and stay in the Air Force for a completely different reason.

That is exactly how Lt. Col. Christopher Bird, 325th Aerospace Medical Squadron commander, began his Air Force career.

Interested in medicine, Bird was drawn to the Air Force by a scholarship opportunity offered to him. He attended the University of Missouri - Kansas City and was a direct commission through the Health Professions Scholarship Program.

"Originally, I joined the Air Force on a scholarship program for medical school," Bird said. "However, I stayed in the Air Force because I was exposed to flight medicine early on in my career and immensely enjoy supporting the flying mission."

Becoming the commander of the 325th AMDS takes hard work and dedication. These are two traits that Bird is very familiar with.

"Immediately prior to taking command, I was at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, completing my Master of Science degree in Aerospace Medicine and received my certification as an Aerospace Medicine Specialist," Bird said. "Before that, I was on staff at headquarters 3rd Air Force, Ramstein, Germany, as the Chief of Aerospace Medicine."

His love of medicine drives his passion as the AMDS commander. Since taking command, Bird said he most enjoys taking care of the people who protect the health and safety of everyone on base. He also enjoys ensuring that they have what they need to succeed.

As commander of the AMDS, Bird has set high goals for both himself and his squadron. He said he looks forward to embracing the challenges that come with the transition to Air Combat Command and the newly arrived combat unit. He also expects to maintain a posture of vigilance in order to keep the Tyndall population healthy.

As for his life here, Bird is nothing less than enthusiastic about spending his time in the Florida panhandle.

"Tyndall has been a great place to live and work," Bird said. "The high-operations tempo flying mission has been a wonderful challenge. It has been a true honor to serve the men and women of the 325th AMDS so far."