OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Marcus Hollins, 51st Medical Support Squadron pharmacy operations section chief, was recognized as the Mustang of the Week at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Aug. 7, 2026.
Since arriving at Osan in January 2025, Hollins has brought his experience, mentorship and passion for coaching into his role supporting Airmen and patients across the installation.
As the pharmacy operations section chief, Hollins helps lead a team responsible for ensuring patients receive the correct medication and dosages while navigating the unpredictable pace of pharmacy operations.
“We keep people in the fight,” Hollins said. “It’s our job to give them the right medication, make sure they’re getting the right dose and make sure they’re able to get back into the fight.”
Pharmacy personnel serve as one of the final safeguards in a patient’s care, reviewing prescriptions and ensuring potential errors are identified before medication reaches the patient. The work can also be stressful, with the team balancing patient needs, provider coordination and changing workloads each day.
One of Hollins’ priorities is keeping his team grounded through those stressful moments while still maintaining high standards.
“Pharmacy is stressful,” said Hollins. “I try to keep it as light as possible while still holding the standards and making sure I’m taking care of the Airmen so we can take care of the mission.”
Maj. Gregory Correale, 51st MDSS diagnostics and therapeutics flight commander, reflected on how Hollins’ experiences have helped him bring a unique approach to mentoring Airmen, especially when preparing them for challenging environments.
“With his deployment experience, he has done a fantastic job of educating our younger Airmen on the operations and stressors involved in doing pharmacy,” said Correale. “He brings a unique mentoring style and perspective, relying on his personal and professional experiences.”
Much of that mentoring style was shaped through Hollins’ longtime passion for basketball. Hollins began coaching early on at the high school level before rising to the opportunity to coach the U.S. Air Force Women’s Basketball Team.
As a young staff sergeant, one of Hollins’ mentors challenged him to consider the similarities between coaching a basketball team and leading in the military.
“Basketball coaching has actually transformed my career as a leader,” said Hollins. “Coaches teach players, place them in positions to succeed, build team culture and hold people accountable, not different from a leader in the Air Force.”
His willingness to help others extends beyond his immediate work center. Hollins prioritizes mentoring others whether they fall within his fight or participate in a basketball summer camp.
“There are so many stories of Master Sgt. Hollins going the extra mile to make sure those he leads, coaches or interacts with always feels important and recognized,” said Lt. Col. Jacob Williams, 51st MDSS commander. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to make him feel the same way. We appreciate all he continues to do for our Mustang Medics, Team Osan and the U.S. Air Force Women’s Basketball Team.”