It’s the bottom of the ninth inning of a tied game with two outs and the winning run at third.

“I’m a coach with a whole bunch of blue chip players,” said Col. Jerome (Jerry) Penner, commander, Madigan Army Medical Center.

The outcome of the game is assured; Penner’s team will score.

“My job is to see that the team is fine-tuned and ready for the big game.”

When military members go to war, they know that the MAMC medical team — whether at home with their loved ones or in theater with them — under Penner’s command will come through.

An officer with the ability to make those he comes in contact feel at ease and empowered, Penner took command of MAMC on Aug. 13.

He relieved Maj. Gen. Patricia Horoho, who had commanded both MAMC and the Western Regional Medical Command.  She is now standing up an enlarged regional command.

Penner believes that teamwork at MAMC is the key to improving upon the institution’s already stellar reputation for quality medical care and innovation.

“The true credit of an outstanding institution lies with the team,” he said.

In accomplishing this goal, he utilizes a decentralized management style that allows all 4,300 of the individuals at MAMC the chance to excel.

“I am an enabler; I knock down obstacles and allow my people to do their work,” explained Penner.

He believes that a large part of his job is to provide the best resources, environment and leadership to those providing care to patients.  In turn, providers do their best for their patients.

“When our providers are successful, our patients walk out smiling,” said Penner.

He explained that his concept of leadership centers on taking care of people.

“The most successful organizations are that way because they take care of their people,” emphasized Penner.

He also is open to ideas from those who work with him at MAMC.

“There are 4,300 brains to tap into here; we have smart and experienced people here,” said Penner.

He paused and then said: “Madigan is not just a world leader in military health care but in health care.  We practice the best medicine. Period.”

The ball just cleared the left-center field fence.  Team Madigan — and the soldiers, retirees and family members it serves — wins.

Photo: Col. Jerome Penner works to influence the MAMC staff in a positive manner. Photography by J.M. Simpson