LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- U.S. Air Force Col. Diane Caranta assumed command of the Laughlin Medical Group (LMG) from Col. Kelly Vermillion during a change of command ceremony at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 14, 2026.
Col. Eric Bissonette, 47th Flying Training Wing (FTW) commander, presided over the ceremony and praised Vermillion for her leadership and commitment to the LMG.
“You have left an indelible mark on this organization, and you leave it better than you found it,” said Bissonette. “We thank you for your incredible leadership, your relentless pursuit of improvement, and your unwavering commitment to the health and readiness of our Airmen.”
During Vermillion’s time in command, she transformed a $65 million healthcare portfolio, where her squadrons achieved the highest dental production in 17 years. Furthermore, her leadership was vital during the presidential border mission integrating U.S. Army medics to provide care for over 700 soldiers.
Vermillion was also presented with the Legion of Merit Medal for her accomplishments as commander, given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements.
“When I took command of the Laughlin Medical Group, formerly known as the 47th Medical Group two years ago, I knew I was stepping into a role with a rich history and a critical mission,” said Vermillion. “What I couldn't have fully appreciated until I was in the trenches with you was the sheer dedication, resilience and caliber of people who make up this unit.”
Bissonette also welcomed Caranta to Laughlin and the LMG, highlighting the hard working Airmen she will work with in her upcoming role.
“You are taking the helm of an outstanding organization that's already exceeding standards, a team of highly dedicated professionals who are the best at what they do,” said Bissonette. “I have confidence that you will inspire this team, you'll build upon the strong foundation that Kelly has laid before you, and guide the Laughlin Medical Group to even greater heights.”
Caranta previously served as the 48th Medical Group aerospace medicine chief at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, directly advising 2 wing commanders on all matters pertaining to health, safety, and well being of 9,300 Airmen and their families.
As the incoming LMG commander, Caranta will be responsible for leading 45 Airmen, civilians, and contractors who support the 47th FTW by ensuring the medical readiness and healthcare of 1,500 active duty service members, 400 reservists, and 3,200 additional beneficiaries.
“I am so grateful to be here,” said Caranta. “The 47th Flying Training Wing has a mission unlike any other, producing combat ready military aviators through world class undergraduate pilot training. Every sortie launched, every student trained, and every milestone achieved depends on readiness, and that readiness begins with the health and resilience of our people.”
The LMG provides comprehensive medical, dental, and aeromedical services to the 47th FTW, the Air Force’s largest specialized undergraduate pilot training program. The LMG consists of two squadrons, the Healthcare Operations Squadron and Operational Medical Readiness Squadron, with a combined total of 165 medical personnel.
“To the men and women of the 47th Medical Group, thank you for what you do every single day,” said Caranta. “I look forward to learning from you, serving alongside you, and building on the outstanding legacy of this organization. Together, we will ensure our airmen remain ready, our families remain supported, and the 47th Flying Training Wing continues to deliver the world's finest combat ready military aviators.”