Military Officer - October 2008 - (Page 28) rapidfire L Retiree Spotlight t. Col. Orlando Illi, USA-Ret., was honored on Capitol Hill in June as one of 29 finalists for the prestigious Service to America Medals. The award honors America’s most outstanding federal workers. Illi was selected for his work as the deputy product manager for the Army’s Medical Communications for Combat Casualty Care (MC4) team. The team integrates field and support systems that allow medical units to digitally capture and access servicemembers’ medical records on the battlefield. How did you feel when you learned you were a finalist for the Service to America Medal? It was a humbling experience. I don’t like the limelight. But I was thankful that the work and sacrifice of the entire MC4 team was being recognized. We have more than 200 staff members dedicated to this cause, many of whom are disabled veterans themselves, and we have about 44 people serving in harm’s way every day to support this mission. We are a team. Why are the accomplishments of MC4 so personal to you? As a young lieutenant, I was in a serious vehicle accident. I was medevaced to a hospital for back injuries. At the time, there was no consistent medical record-keeping system in the military, and for years I had herniated discs in my back that never were treated. I want to ensure that all servicemembers have accurate and retrievable electronic medical records. As a result of our team’s efforts, more than 7 million electronic medical records are now easily accessible to medical providers both at home and on the front lines. You’ve dedicated two careers to public service. Why is that important to you? My family has a history of public service. My father always told his children that to serve this nation was one of the highest callings. He enlisted in the Navy at the age of 16. He served in both World War II and Korea. I was also lucky enough to have a number of personal mentors throughout my Army career who instilled in me the idea that selfless service to the soldier is the highest calling for any officer. — Ellen Woods Attention! Check out these military-related entertainment offerings. BOOK Heroes at Home: Help and Hope for America’s Military Families (Bethany House Publishers, 2008) Ellie Kay, a veteran military spouse who weathered 13 moves in 16 years with five children, offers 28 MILITARY OFFICER helpful and encouraging advice to family members of depoyed troops. MOVIE Hamburger Hill (Lions Gate, 2008) This Vietnam classic has been rereleased for its 20th anniversary. The DVD comes loaded with new, special features, including commentary from the actors and an interactive Vietnam War timeline. BOOK The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Your Military and Veterans Benefits (Alpha, 2008) This comprehensive reference book is packed with information about how to take full advantage of military entitlements — for both active duty and retired servicemembers. MO PHOTO: STEVE BARRETT OCTOBER 2008
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