Author: COL Retired Enrique Ortiz
The DUSTOFF Association is on the verge of a historic achievement: the creation of its first strategic plan, the DUSTOFF Association Strategy 2035. Now over 80% complete and set for unveiling at the 2025 DUSTOFF Reunion, this visionary roadmap aims to establish the association as a nationally recognized and influential voice within the U.S. military aeromedical evacuation community. The strategy envisions a future where DUSTOFF’s legacy of selfless service and sacrifice is not only preserved and honored but also actively carried forward to support future generations.
The Strategy 2035 plan tackles significant challenges, including declining membership, limited resources, and reduced engagement with active and reserve forces. Guided by a bold, forward-looking vision, it seeks to preserve and elevate the legacy of those who have flown the DUSTOFF mission, ensuring it remains a “Life Long” commitment that continues to shape the battlefield and sustain military personnel for decades to come.
At the heart of this vision are three strategic pillars—Preserving the Legacy, Honoring Our Members, and Growing the Association:
- Preserving the Legacy entails expanding programs and services that connect members to DUSTOFF’s rich history. The association will deepen its engagement with active-duty and reserve forces and advocate in Congress for policies that uphold the critical role of aeromedical evacuation and the dedication of those who serve this mission.
- Honoring Our Members underscores the association’s commitment to recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of DUSTOFF members and their families. Through expanded scholarships, grants, and tributes, the association seeks to celebrate those who have served and support the families who stand behind them.
- Growing the Association is crucial to DUSTOFF’s continued relevance and impact. Through targeted membership drives, strategic partnerships, and enhanced marketing efforts, the association aims to broaden its reach and deepen its influence. By prioritizing talent development, it will foster future leaders who embody the resilience and dedication that define the DUSTOFF mission.
Underpinning all these efforts is a single guiding principle: selflessly giving back with commitment and unity. This ethos drives every initiative, reinforcing DUSTOFF’s unique spirit of service and ensuring that each program and goal resonates with the association’s core values.
Supported by foundational enablers—strong leadership, a dedicated volunteer network, and sustainable financial practices—the DUSTOFF Association Strategy 2035 aspires to transform the association into a resilient, influential force that not only honors its past but also shapes a future where DUSTOFF is a leading authority and advocate for aeromedical evacuation.
As the DUSTOFF Association nears completion of this strategic plan, it reaffirms its commitment to a legacy that cherishes the past while embracing the future. United by a spirit of selfless service and solidarity, DUSTOFF members and supporters are working to ensure that the mission continues to define excellence in aeromedical evacuation, both on the battlefield and within our communities.
