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Breaking ground on new medical facility

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eboni Reece
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  A groundbreaking ceremony to signify the commencement of the Cannon medical clinic replacement project was held here Tuesday.

Dozens gathered to witness the event just west of the current medical facility, which has been standing for nearly half a century. Col. Jeffrey Gillen, 27th Special Operations Medical Group commander, addressed those in attendance and spoke of the future for medical services at the 27th Special Operations Wing.

“This new facility will serve the Air Commando medics with Cannon to generate the highest levels of care,” stated Gillen. “This will enhance the patient experience and ability to take care of our Air Commando family for the next 50 years.”

Construction of the new 112,000 square foot, two-story replacement medical and dental clinic at Cannon will begin in July.

Groundbreaking ceremonies have been a part of history for decades and are still a universal occasion in modern culture. One unique aspect of this groundbreaking ceremony was the historical connection to one of the distinguished guests in attendance.

Meredith Bender, who retired from the 27th SOMDG after 42 years of service, was present in November of 1965 and participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the 832nd Tactical Hospital, now known as the existing Cannon Clinic.

“It is a wonderful thing that happened here today,” said Bender. “It is an honor and pleasure for me to be part of this groundbreaking; I would not have missed it for the world.”

The original shovel she used on that day in 1965, which also bears her engraved name, was used during this groundbreaking to honor the heritage and legacy of those who have served prior and paved the way for the start of this $53 million construction project.

Bender briefly explained the story behind the golden shovel on which her name is etched.

“At the previous groundbreaking, the engineer had the idea to spray paint the shovel and get everyone to autograph it, but I was the only one who did,” explained Bender while laughing. “So I consider it my shovel!”

The new Cannon medical clinic is striving for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Certification, and construction is scheduled to be completed in 2018. Once complete, the clinic will provide a healing environment to facilitate communication between caregivers, patients and families.

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