Resource Guide

Wounded warrior program gets new chief

  • Published
  • By Tammy Cournoyer
  • Air Force Wounded Warrior Program
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Lt. Col. Susan L. Black becomes the new chief of the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program beginning July 8 when she reports to the Air Force Personnel Center here.

She replaces Lt. Col. David L. Bringhurst who is transferring to Joint Base Andrews, Md., where he will serve as chief of the Psychological Health Branch for the Air National Guard Readiness Center.

"I have had the chance to work with a group of the most committed professionals on a daily basis," said Colonel Bringhurst. "This has been a great blessing to me. I'm going to dearly miss serving our warriors, working with the Air Force Wounded Warrior team, and being part of the professional team at the Air Force Personnel Center."

Colonel Black commented that she is looking forward to her new duties and plans to dedicate herself to the AFW2 mission.

"I have a focused commitment on ensuring that our wounded warriors and their families receive the comprehensive care, support, and assistance needed throughout their recovery lifecycle including a successful return to duty where feasible, or a subsequent transition to veteran status," said Colonel Black. "I plan to partner with any organization dedicated to the mission of enhancing, empowering, and honoring our wounded warriors and their families."

Colonel Black previously served as the chief of Wounded Warrior Information Management for the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, Health Affairs/TRICARE Management Activity in Falls Church, Va. In this role she managed the Military Health System's health information technology initiatives for developing wounded warrior information technology capabilities valued at $738 million.

She also led work activities supporting major product lines including the disability evaluation system, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, case management, e-benefits portal, theater imaging, and reserve component and pay systems.

Colonel Black holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Florida A&M University, and a Master of Social Work from Barry University. She is a board certified diplomat in clinical social work and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers.

Beginning her Air Force career in 1994, Colonel Black served at a variety of locations in the Washington, D.C., area as well as at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., and Laughlin AFB and Lackland AFB, Texas. Her overseas assignment was served at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

Colonel Bringhurst, who has served as the AFW2 program chief since November 2008, takes with him fond memories of his assignment here.

"It has been my honor and privilege to serve our Air Force's wounded warriors," Colonel Bringhurst explained. "I've gained a deeper respect for our Airmen, particularly in relation to the oath of service to defend our country, and what that really entails at the individual, family, and community levels.

"I have also gained a deep respect for the families and friends of our severely wounded combat Airmen," he added. "These family members truly provide selfless sacrifice, much of it unseen and unknown to the outside world."