Together, 85th Fighter Group, VA, and the 188th Wing Create Groundbreaking Collaboration to Ensure Pilots Are Mission-Ready

In a groundbreaking partnership, the 85th Fighter Group, Veterans Health System of the Ozarks (VHSO), and the 188th Medical Group are rewriting the playbook on military readiness, proving that collaboration is the key to unmatched mission success

In the heart of Fort Smith, Arkansas, the 188th Wing hosts the 85th Fighter Group, an Active Duty Geographically Separated Unit, from the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin AFB FL, the nation’s finest pilots—individuals who embody skill, bravery, and dedication. However, when Dr. Carlos Enamorado, Flight Surgeon for the 85th Fighter Group (call sign Spike), transferred to the unit, a significant challenge emerged: there was no on-site clinic to meet the pilots' medical needs.

Understanding the critical importance of ensuring their physical and mental well-being—given the rigorous demands of their duties—Dr. Enamorado set out to find a solution. With no clinic available, he reached out to the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) Fort Smith Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in June, prior to his arrival at the base, with the hope of forging a partnership to bridge the gap in care.

His call was answered by Tamara Mays, VHSO's Fort Smith CBOC Nurse Manager. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Ms. Mays sprang into action. Together with key staff at VHSO, they collaborated with the 188th Medical Group to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), culminating in the newly executed VA/DoD Resource Sharing Agreement.

“This agreement represents a groundbreaking initiative, underscoring our commitment to providing world-class healthcare to our nation’s heroes,” said Martha Smith, EdD, RD, Interim Medical Center Director at VHSO.

This agreement is more than just a document—it’s a symbol of collaboration and unwavering dedication to those who serve. Through this partnership, the pilots of the 85th Fighter Group now have a dedicated space to receive top-tier healthcare services, provided by their Flight Surgeon, ensuring they remain in optimal condition both physically and mentally while protecting our nation.

“Ensuring the health, performance, and readiness of our pilots is paramount,” said Dr. Carlos Enamorado, Flight Surgeon (call sign Spike). “This partnership with the VHSO Fort Smith CBOC is critical in maintaining their physical and mental well-being. It's an honor to contribute to a solution that supports these brave men and women who dedicate their lives to service.”

The VA/DoD Resource Sharing Agreement stands as a testament to our nation’s commitment to its heroes, ensuring they are well cared for—both in the skies and on the ground.

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