Today, we honor the extraordinary career, service, and legacy of Colonel Tam Dinh — a woman of resilience, courage, and boundless love for her family, faith, and country.
Her story is one of perseverance and purpose. From refugee to Colonel, she embodies the American dream. We pause to honor the memory of her parents, Su Van Tran and Chao Nguyen, whose love and sacrifice continue to guide her. Though unseen, they are ever-present in her heart.
On June 11, 1991, Tam’s journey as a U.S. citizen began, and six years later, she became a United States Air Force officer. Her father’s wisdom influenced her career choices, and from there her heart led the way. From her first assignment at McChord Air Force base to commanding at Travis, she proved that leadership isn’t about rank — it’s about heart, humility, and action.
Tam’s career is marked by excellence. She led healthcare teams to historic inspection scores, championed multi-million dollar operations, and excelled in roles few medical officers experience. Her reputation for being “high speed, low drag” earned her accolades, but more importantly, it earned her the trust and respect of her Airmen.
Her success wasn’t hers alone. It belonged to her family — her husband, Minh, and their children Ryan, Rachel, and Riona. With each assignment, each challenge, and each deployment, they stood together. Their family motto is simple: “Love and support, no matter what.”
Today, as we celebrate Colonel Tam Dinh, we honor not just her accomplishments, but her impact. She showed us that leadership isn’t about what you achieve — it’s about the lives you touch. To Minh, Ryan, Rachel, and Riona, thank you for sharing her with the United States Air Force. Her success and pride is yours too.
Ladies and gentlemen, join me in one final salute to a true leader, trailblazer, and inspiration — Colonel Tam Dinh.
