MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Breana Quimby, 42nd Operational Medical Readiness Squadron environmental health technician, was named Crusader of the Month for March for her contributions to mission readiness and process improvements across Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base.
“Being named Crusader of the Month is a reflection of the support I get from my team,” said Quimby. We all have our roles, and it’s rewarding to know the hard work we do is being acknowledged.”
Quimby manages the respiratory protection program for Maxwell, the 908th Airlift Wing and mission partners, ensuring personnel are properly fitted and equipped to operate in hazardous environments. Quimby also oversees the maintenance of flight emergency response equipment valued at more than $290,000, ensuring readiness for bioenvironmental and emergency response operations.
“Without us, deployers can't go out the door; we make sure our deployers are safe, and they have to be prepared for anything,” said Quimby. .”
Quimby enlisted in the Air Force in 2010 and served until 2016; spending three years at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, with the 773rd Civil Engineer Squadron and three years at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., with the 778th CES as an emergency manager. After her active duty service, she transitioned to a civilian position as squadron secretary at the 59th Training Support Squadron at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam, Texas.
Two years into her current role with the 42nd OMRS, Quimby feels she found a home with Maxwell.
“Getting this job changed everything for me and my family,” said Quimby. “It allowed me to take the experience I gained in the Air Force and apply it in meaningful way.”
Quimby was recently selected as the 42nd Medical Group Booster Club president, introducing new initiatives to enhance camaraderie and unit morale.
“She is a natural leader who constantly looks for ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Eugenio Mata, 42nd OMRS bioenvironmental engineering flight chief.
Quimby also spearheaded a joint training initiative with the base fire department, training 10 firefighters to conduct respirator fit tests. This initiative saved an estimated 107 man-hours last year while improving mission readiness and resource utilization.
“Most of our job is preventative,” Quimby said. “We make sure your water is clean, workplaces are safe and people aren’t being exposed to harmful chemicals. Bioenvironmental is a broad field and my role encompasses multiple responsibilities from water and air sampling to emergency response coordination.”
Additionally, Quimby implemented a scheduling platform for gas mask and respirator fit tests, streamlining the process for the 42nd Air Base Wing, the 908th AW and other mission partners. Quimby’s attention to detail also led to the identification of 79 outdated equipment pieces, securing $30,000 for replacements and upgrades.
Quimby’s dedication to operational excellence and readiness has made an impact on Team Maxwell. Her recognition as Crusader of the Month highlights her contributions to the base’s mission and personnel.
“We are really happy here and my boys are thriving,” said Quimby. “My family is happier, healthier and in a much better community than we were before.”
The title of “Crusader” holds a historical significance within the 42nd ABW. During their deployment to the Free French Islands of New Caledonia in 1943, Airmen from the 42nd bomb group were bestowed the nickname “Crusaders” by their French allies. To honor this bond, they adopted the Cross of Lorraine on their B-25 bomber. This legacy continues to live on through the 42nd ABW today.