Courtesy Photo MyMichigan Health Foundation’s Business Relations Committee presented the 2026 Health Leadership Award to the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC).

ALPENA – MyMichigan Health Foundation’s Business Relations Committee selected the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC) as the recipient of the 2026 Health Leadership Award. The honor recognizes both the longstanding partnership between MyMichigan Health and the Alpena CRTC, as well as the exceptional service provided by Air National Guard (ANG) members during northeast Michigan’s 2025 ice storm.

“After a brief committee discussion, it was an easy choice,” said Ann Diamond, development director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “Our community has long benefited from the partnership the Medical Center has with the Alpena CRTC. With their assistance during last year’s ice storm and the ANG clinical training partnership, we were proud to select the Alpena CRTC as our Health Leadership Award winner this year.”

MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena offers ANG members access to clinical hours that support their medical technician education and readiness requirements. These hands-on experiences strengthen their skills in emergency and critical care settings, preparing them for real-world field situations. Airmen and hospital staff consistently emphasize the value of this clinical training, and many patients and visitors enjoy interacting with ANG members. Through these opportunities, trainees often earn new credentials and go on to serve communities across the country.

This year’s award felt especially meaningful, recognizing not only the enduring partnership but also the Airmen’s contributions during the 2025 ice storm. Business Relations Committee Chair Jerry Plohocky presented the Health Leadership Award to Alpena CRTC leadership, including Aerospace Medical Services Superintendent SMSgt Billy Fields and Lt. Col. Jonathan Trotter.

Reflecting on the committee’s decision, Plohocky shared, “The committee was excited to offer the Alpena CRTC this award based on their regular work with the Medical Center. We were all in agreement and very pleased to be able to show our gratitude to the Airmen. We are grateful to recognize this wonderful partnership and also the ANGs immense impact on our community during last year’s ice storm.”

During the storm, the Alpena CRTC, along with additional National Guard troops, provided a large warming shelter and an oxygen refill station on the MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena campus, assisted with cleanup efforts, and supported coordination throughout the recovery.

Diamond concluded, “We are proud of our unique relationship with the Alpena CRTC and appreciative of all they do for the Alpena community. They offer relevant programs and initiatives to their staff, are excellent community partners, and demonstrate a deep commitment to our region. Their support of northeast Michigan includes not only financial contributions but also active involvement from their staff throughout the service area. The 2026 Health Leadership Award recognizes their many efforts in a small way. We congratulate the Alpena CRTC and appreciate their presence in our community.”

Those interested in more information on the MyMichigan Health Foundation in Alpena may contact Diamond at (989) 356-7738.