Team Minot’s New 5th MDG Commander Published June 18, 2014 By Senior Airman Brittany Y. Bateman Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Col. Tasha Pravecek took the reins as commander of the 5th Medical Group from Col. William Tyra during a change of command ceremony, June 12, 2014. This is Pravecek's second assignment to Minot Air Force Base. In 2011, she was the commander of the 5th Medical Support Squadron. "It is truly an honor and privilege to be taking command of the 5th Medical Group," said Pravecek. "While in command, I intend to continue to maintain and further develop our priorities." Pravecek was commissioned in May 1990 as a graduate from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Sciences. She has served as a research toxicologist, instructor of chemistry, health risk assessment consultant, bioenvironmental engineer, weapon of mass destruction analyst, staff officer in the Air Force Research Laboratory and served in a Senior Service School Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory, Illinois. "Col. Tyra good luck on your retirement," said Pravecek. "You have been an amazing Air Force leader." The 5th MDG offers outpatient services including Family Practice, Dental, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, Aerospace Medicine, Physical Therapy, Optometry and Women's Health Care. The group consists of the 5th Medical Operations Squadron and 5th Medical Support Squadron. "To the men and women of the 5th Medical Group," started Pravecek, "I look forward to serving with all of you and leading our team as we continue a tradition of excellence."