Health and Wellness

Published Oct. 22, 2009
By Jonathan Hicks
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Staying fit and healthy can be a big challenge. The Health and Wellness center (HAWC) is a valuable resource to getting the information you need about your health. They have a variety of programs for eating a healthy diet, fitness, quitting smoking and also a video series called "gait analysis" which demonstrates proper running techniques.

At Keesler, the center's staff consists of Master Sgt. Jeffery Green, non-commissioned Officer in charge, who helps with day to day administrative operations. Terri Jordan, the fitness program manager provides training for the unit fitness managers, in addition to consulting squadron commanders on fitness issues and coordinating fitness panel reviews. Mrs. Jordan also works with physicians at the Keesler Medical Center concerning health issues of a member, who may have physical conditions which prevents from them from passing the fitness program. Marie Routhier, who is the information manager, coordinates activities and informs the base population on the various health awareness initiatives programs. Most of the wellness programs and classes are open to any DOD employee, retirees and dependents.

Due to a change in the contracting process the center is temporarily missing two key positions. Lt. Col. Marcus Cranston, the Health Promotions flight commander says, "in addition to the current staff we have, usually there's a health promoter educator to work with all the agencies on base to do health promotion and education awareness. One of her biggest on-going programs is the tobacco cessation courses, which are a priority of the Air Force to reduce smoking among airman as a way to improve their health."

"A dietitian is also normally available for consulting members who would like assistance with developing a healthy diet for themselves," says Colonel Cranston. "They also handle all Body Composition Improvement Program (BCIP) reviews for those who have not passed their Air Force fitness test and work with the dining facilities to provide heart healthy options for their menus," he points out.

Despite the short the staff, the HAWC will sponsor two major events in November; a 5K run called the Great American Smoke Out on the Nov. 19th, and on a date yet to be determined, Walk your Way through the Holidays that promotes staying fit during the holidays.

For more information on these and other programs contact the HAWC at, 377-3170.

Health and wellness center promotes fitness