Category: US Navy

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

The San Diego Padres, joined by alumni and their mascot, the Swinging Friar, brought holiday cheer to patients, families, and staff at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD), Dec. 4. The visit, held in conjunction with Fisher House San Diego’s annual open house, aimed to boost morale and show appreciation for the military community.

“We have a strong connection with the military in San Diego and host them at our games throughout the season, so coming to see them in their place of work is pretty special,” said retired Padres player Randy Jones. “The staff here work tirelessly to provide the best care possible for patients. Especially during the holidays, it’s always a great time to give back and do something meaningful.”

The visit began at Fisher House, a home away from home for military families receiving treatment at NMCSD. Padres representatives met with residents, signed autographs, and distributed team memorabilia. The players also shared personal stories and words of encouragement with family members navigating the challenges of long-term and often times unexpected medical care.

“Our mission at Fisher House San Diego is to support military families during times of medical crisis,” said Tiana Babcock, FHSD general manager. “It’s our privilege to offer a ‘home away from home’ and provide a moment of respite during the holidays with the support of the Padres, who are deeply committed to giving back to the military community.”

The open house brought in a steady stream of fans who came to meet the team.

“It’s such a joy to have the Padres visit us,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kyra Gause, Executive Assistant to the Command Master Chief. “Not only did I get to interact with Padres legends like Randy Jones and Mark Loretta, but I also got to experience the strong bond between the Padres and the military.”

The Padres’ visit extended throughout the hospital, where they met with ill, injured service members, veterans, and staff in various departments, offering autographs, team memorabilia, and words of encouragement.

“For our patients and staff, interacting with their sporting idols is priceless,” said Lt. Nicolas Filio, Nurse Division Officer at NMCSD, an ICU nurse at NMCSD. “Opportunities like this remind us that the Padres appreciate the sacrifices made by our service members and healthcare providers. It’s a wonderful morale booster and a meaningful way to honor our patients, who are our nation’s heroes.”

Capt. Elizabeth Adriano, Director of NMCSD, emphasized the importance of community outreach events like this.

“The support from the San Diego Padres is a testament to the strong bond between military and civilian communities – and San Diego is no exception,” emphasized Adriano. “Their visit today brought joy and inspiration to our patients, staff, and families, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.”

The Padres’ visit is part of the team’s ongoing community engagement efforts, which include partnerships with military organizations and initiatives aimed at supporting service members and their families throughout the San Diego area.

“With our strong connection to the military, we are proud to partner with the Naval Medical Center San Diego to help spread some holiday cheer and support those who serve our country,” said Padres Executive Vice President of Community & International Impact, Tom Seidler. “Whether it be at Petco Park or here at their place of work, expressing our gratitude for the service and dedication they’ve shown to our country is of the utmost importance to us.”

Fisher House San Diego continues to provide temporary lodging, free of charge, to military families receiving care at NMCSD. With two houses and 18 guestrooms, Fisher House ensures that families can focus on the recovery of their loved ones without the burden of finding accommodations during difficult times.

“Something that resonated with me this Padres season was their slogan “Fight for the Faithful,” added Babcock. “Our military families staying at Fisher House San Diego and their patients receiving care at NMCSD have the same fight and resiliency to remain faithful during times of medical crisis.”

For more information about Fisher House San Diego, visit fisherhouse.org.

For media with any follow-up interest or questions, contact NMCSD Public Affairs at 619-380-3004.

The mission of NMCSD is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality health care services, and shape the future of military medicine through education, training, and research. NMCSD employs more than 5,000 active-duty military personnel, civilians, and contractors in southern California to provide patients with world-class care. Anchored in Excellence, Committed to Health!

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

Sailors from Expeditionary Medical Facility Kilo (EMF Kilo) and 2nd Medical Battalion participated in a localized joint training exercise designed to enhance interoperability and knowledge for combined worldwide operations on Nov. 25, 2024, aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

The training evolution began with in-person didactics from functional areas to include inpatient nursing, causality receiving, patient administration, and walking blood bank. Participants focused on patient flow and regulation.

“We are conducting this exercise to ensure that EMF Kilo is ready to provide the Navy and the Department of Defense with enhanced expeditionary medical capabilities anywhere in the world,” said U.S. Navy Captain Darryl Arfsten, commanding officer of EMF Kilo. “Our goal is to always be ready to fulfill our wartime mission. We stay ready by conducting these exercises and maintaining our skills by working the Defense Health Agency health care mission here at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune.”

During the evolution, subject matter experts walked newer staff members through processes and exchanged information on best practices.

“Strengthening our partnership with 2d Medical Battalion is crucial,” said Lt. Cmdr. Nancy Broz, EMF Kilo assistant training officer. “Collaborative clinical and training experiences maximizes resource utilization, enhances learning and capabilities of both units, and builds relationships and trust between personnel. These bonds are invaluable, whether operating in a future deployed environment or working together at future duty stations.”

Following the morning walk-through, attendees were able to put the knowledge into action at Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune’s Healthcare Simulation and Bioskills Center where EMF Kilo simulated causalities and 2nd Medical Battalion provided role players.

“The exercise allowed EMF Kilo members to gain an appreciation of how we will operate downrange and maintain the unit’s ability to perform its core mission if called upon to do so,” stated U.S. Navy Captain Martin Braud, executive officer of EMF Kilo. “The lessons learned from this event will also help shape our future training events.”

This collective training evolution is helping the unit prepare for an upcoming deployment exercise this April at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.

EMF-Kilo is a subordinate unit of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Camp Lejeune which carries out its mission to maximize warfighter performance and enhance readiness of the medical force.

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

Rear Adm. Matthew Case, Director of the Medical Service Corps (MSC), visited Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) for an Admiral’s Call, providing mentorship and guidance to MSC officers, Dec. 3.

During the visit, Case met with medical professionals and staff from various departments, emphasizing the vital role NMCSD plays in delivering world-class healthcare to service members, veterans, and their families. The event, hosted by the Medical Service Corps Officer’s Association of Southern California, included a comprehensive session on promotion pathways, career development, and the evolving demands of military medicine; followed by one-on-one mentorship sessions provided by the MSC Deputy Corps Chief, Capt. Kristin Hodapp and Plans and Policy Officer, Cmdr. Bryan Pyle.

“Naval Medical Center San Diego stands as a pillar of excellence within Navy Medicine,” said Case. “It’s a privilege to engage with the dedicated personnel here, who embody the highest standards of care, readiness, and service to our nation.”

The Admiral’s Call featured a Question and Answer session, where Case addressed concerns ranging from operational readiness to professional growth opportunities within the MSC. He encouraged attendees to take advantage of mentorship programs and leadership training to advance their careers while contributing to the Navy’s mission.

“Investing in your professional development is not only a personal milestone, but also a critical component of the Navy’s success,” Case said. “Each of you plays a vital role in maintaining the readiness and resilience of our force.”

Lt. Cmdr. Megan Kelly, Assistant Department Head for NMCSD’s Physical and Occupational Therapy Department, highlighted the value of Case’s visit for junior and mid-level officers. “Rear Adm. Case’s visit was an incredible opportunity to gain insight into the future of the Medical Service Corps,” Kelly said. “His guidance on career development and leadership provides us with the tools to better serve our patients and contribute to the Navy’s mission of operational readiness.”

Capt. Marcy Morlock, Executive Officer of NMCSD, expressed gratitude for Case’s visit and the insights he shared with the staff. “Rear Adm. Case’s leadership and mentorship are invaluable to our team,” said Morlock. “His guidance reinforces our commitment to excellence in readiness, patient care, and professional development.”

Case also highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in military healthcare, urging personnel to stay ahead of advancements in medical technology and practices to enhance mission readiness.

For more information about the Medical Service Corps and career development opportunities within Navy Medicine, visit https://www.med.navy.mil.

The mission of NMCSD is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality health care services, and shape the future of military medicine through education, training, and research. NMCSD employs more than 5,000 active-duty military personnel, civilians, and contractors in southern California to provide patients with world-class care. Anchored in Excellence, Committed to Health!

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

When Lt. Cmdr. Sarah Jenkins graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center in 2013, she had every intention of working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Those plans went awry when one of her mentors forgot to forward a letter of recommendation with her application.

While discussing her CDC setback with a graduate friend, an Air Force microbiologist, the option of military service came up.

“Out of the blue she said ‘oh, you should be in the Navy,’” Jenkins recalled.

Jenkins’ father had served as a Sailor in the U.S. Navy, and her grandfather, a retired Airman served in both the Navy and Air Force. While it wasn’t an avenue she’d previously considered, Jenkins visited a recruiter shortly after her friend’s suggestion and was sold on the idea of becoming a Navy microbiologist.

“The Navy was in my roots.” Jenkins explained, “I was interested in traveling to remote areas of the world, to learn about and experience different cultures, and use my area of expertise, infectious diseases, to help them however I could.”

A native of Brownsville, Texas, Jenkins comes from a family of engineers, however since the age of eight she has always had an interest for infectious disease.

“I cannot remember a time where I was not fascinated with germs and diseases, I was intrigued because we cannot see it or touch them,” she said.

After completing officer training in 2014, Jenkins arrived at her first duty station: Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth, Virginia, where she hit the ground running as the division officer for the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory.

This job would be her first exposure to the Naval Medical Research Command (NMRC)’s Naval Infectious Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory (NIDDL), where she learned of the clinical infectious disease reference laboratory, and its capabilities and support during the Ebola outbreak.

While assigned to the Peru-based Naval Medical Research Unit (NAMRU) 6, (now NAMRU SOUTH), and later Navy Environmental Preventive Medicine Unit (NEPMU) 6, Jenkins traveled around South America and the Indo-Pacific region working with diseases like dengue, zika, and a wide range of viral and bacterial diseases. Her work with the NEPMU-6’s mobile microbiology labs spanned global health engagements, humanitarian missions and work under security cooperation for the Indo-Pacific region.

Throughout her assignments with NAMRU-6 and NEPMU-6, Jenkins’ work involved sending samples to the NMRC NIDDL.

In 2021, Jenkins joined NMRC and currently serves as the department head of Diagnostics & Surveillance (DSD), part of the NIDDL. Shortly after arriving at NMRC, the virology program within NMRC’s Defense for Infectious Diseases Directorate (DDID) underwent restructuring. The department supports viral disease research and support, vector-borne surveillance, and the NIDDL clinical lab.

Jenkins looked forward to the changes to sustain and advance NIDDL’s diagnostic, reach-back support, and surveillance activities as the Navy’s primary clinical reference laboratory for emerging and non-emerging diseases.

Jenkins and her team conduct and provide infectious disease diagnostic support services for a panel of 37 infectious disease threats of military importance including SARS-CoV-2, Lyme, Mpox, and dengue. NIDDL’s efforts serve DoD frontline providers and public health professionals in support of force health protection for all active-duty military members and Military Health System beneficiaries.

Currently, Jenkins’ team is also looking into new approaches to understand the immunological profiles of emerging diseases and evaluating antivirals and other prophylactics against viral diseases to support fleet health and readiness.

The NIDDL also provides an avenue for other laboratories and partners within the DoD to identify vectors, and the pathogens that are inside these vectors, to inform policymakers and the various regional combatant commands to assess health threats to service members.

“The work the NIDDL does is vital and critical,” Jenkins said, “. I give props to our prior microbiologist and our current medical director, who put every effort into keeping the NIDDL’s mission going, as they are the only thing on the Navy side that we have as far as a clinical reference laboratory for infectious diseases.”

Jenkins advises anyone interested in the sciences, and in health medicine, to explore their interest early and often.

“You have to find your ‘why?’,” Jenkins explained. “What’s your reason for wanting to do this? Go do an internship and see what it’s like. Shadow the person you want to be, become them for the day and see if that’s what you’re passionate about.”

“It has to come from a place of passion and genuine interest,” Jenkins added. “That passion is how you advance the well-being of other people, of humanity.”

As for her decision to join the military, Jenkins has expressed appreciation for the avenues the Navy afforded her in her career.

“I’m proud and honored to serve in the Military,” said Jenkins, “and to have worked alongside stakeholders such as the CDC, the World Health Organization, USAID [United States Agency for International Development, PAHO [Pan American Health Organization] and our external partners in the infectious disease domain. It’s given me the opportunity to do much more than what I could have achieved in the civilian sector.”

Under Jenkins, the lab has received praise from outside and within the enterprise. Dr. Kevin Porter, former director of NMRC’s Defense Infectious Diseases Directorate spoke glowingly of her tenure.

“Lt. Cmdr. Jenkins’ leadership as head of the Diagnostics and Surveillance Department, and especially as director of the NIDDL, is exceptional,” Porter said. “Providing reliable, state-of-the-art and timely diagnostics is critical to our force health protection mission to mitigate the debilitating infectious diseases threats to deployed military personnel.”

Jenkins was recently awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for her end of tour; she will be going on to the Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute in Bethesda, where she will be serving as the deputy director of the Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program.

“My time at NMRC has been surprisingly wonderful. I had the opportunity to work with extremely intelligent, motivated, curiosity-driven and committed individuals to advance Navy Medicine. In my journey of continuous learning and growth, I’m thankful for my time at NMRC as it impacted my career in such a positive way,” Jenkins said. For her own part, Jenkins has expressed the intention to make the Navy, and Navy Medicine into her career, “I haven’t gotten bored yet!”

NMRC is engaged in a broad spectrum of activities, from basic science in the laboratory to field studies in austere and remote areas of the world to investigations in operational environments. In support of the Navy, Marine Corps and joint U.S. warfighters, researchers study infectious diseases, biological warfare detection and defense, combat casualty care, environmental health concerns, aerospace and undersea medicine, medical modeling, simulation, operational mission support, epidemiology and behavioral sciences.

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

Lt. Cmdr. Joseph “Joey” Biddix, a perioperative nurse and Division Officer of the Sterile Processing Department at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms (NHTP) from June 2022 to June 2023, has been honored with a 1st place finish in the Navy Nurse Corps’ RADM Elizabeth S. Niemyer Award for Evidence-Based Practice. His award-winning project, Tackling Intraoperative Hypothermia: Implementing a Prewarming Protocol at a Remote Military Treatment Facility, showcased the successful implementation of a prewarming protocol at NHTP, beginning in June 2023.

The RADM Elizabeth S. Niemyer Award celebrates Navy nurses who significantly enhance the nursing profession through evidence-based practice (EBP) projects. Winners are recognized for their dedication to improving clinical outcomes, advancing professional nursing practices, and prioritizing patient care. Biddix’s achievement exemplifies the impact of applying research to real-world challenges in military healthcare settings.

Intraoperative Hypothermia (IH), defined as a drop in core body temperature below 36°C during surgery, poses a significant risk to patient safety. It can lead to adverse outcomes such as increased bleeding, heightened risk of surgical site infections, and worsened postoperative pain. While standard warming measures like Bair Hugger devices and warmed intravenous fluids are commonly used in operating rooms, Biddix noticed these interventions were insufficient for many patients at NHTP.

“Maintaining normothermia during surgery is a collaborative effort of the whole perioperative team,” Biddix explained. “However, I observed that despite employing standard warming measures, many of our patients were still experiencing hypothermia during surgery.”

This observation prompted Biddix to investigate potential solutions, drawing inspiration from his previous experience at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. There, he recalled a fellow nurse attempting to launch a prewarming initiative. Intrigued by the concept, Biddix conducted a thorough literature review to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a similar protocol at NHTP.

“Prewarming has been studied for many years and has consistently been shown to be a safe and effective intervention for preventing intraoperative hypothermia,” Biddix said. “However, it’s not yet common practice, partly because research often takes up to 17 years to transition into widespread clinical application.”

To ensure the success of the project, Biddix selected the Johns Hopkins Model for Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) to guide the initiative. This framework emphasizes the importance of a structured approach, including a comprehensive review of existing research, stakeholder engagement, and measurable outcomes.

One of the key steps in the project was conducting a stakeholder analysis to identify and engage all necessary team members. Biddix brought together perioperative nurses, anesthesia providers, and preoperative corpsmen, ensuring their voices were heard and their concerns addressed.

“Many quality improvement projects fail because leaders don’t engage the right people early on,” Biddix explained. “When I met with the corpsmen in pre-op, I explained what IH is and why it’s a problem. Once they understood the negative outcomes associated with IH, they were more engaged and motivated to be part of the solution.”

The team then developed a prewarming protocol that utilized existing equipment, such as forced-air warming blankets, avoiding additional costs. By incorporating the new protocol into the corpsmen’s existing workflows, Biddix ensured the intervention was efficient and minimally disruptive.

“We didn’t want to create a process that was burdensome or added too many steps to what they were already doing,” Biddix explained. “Simplicity and integration into existing workflows were critical to the project’s success.”

To monitor the project’s impact, the team established both process and outcome measures. Process measures included ensuring prewarming was provided to the appropriate patients for at least 30 minutes before surgery and documenting key details, such as start times and patient refusals. Outcome measures focused on tracking rates of IH, its duration, and patients’ temperature trends compared to historical data.

“The ability to measure progress is essential,” Biddix emphasized. “You can’t know if your project is working without clearly defined metrics.”

Within two weeks of launching the protocol, the team achieved 100% compliance. The results were remarkable: the rate of intraoperative hypothermia dropped by 42.8%, and patients who still experienced IH had shorter episodes and recovered to normothermia more quickly.

“Additionally, prewarmed patients had better temperatures upon arrival to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU),” Biddix said. “This not only improved patient safety but also boosted the corpsmen’s confidence in their ability to make a meaningful difference in patient outcomes.”

As with any quality improvement initiative, the project faced initial challenges. One significant hurdle was ensuring staff consistently remembered to implement prewarming and document it properly. Biddix addressed this by being present at the start of each day to observe and provide real-time feedback.

NHTP’s small size and remote location also posed unique challenges. However, Biddix saw this as an opportunity rather than a limitation.

“The facility’s size allows for manageable, impactful projects,” Biddix explained.

The success of Biddix’s project earned him the RADM Elizabeth S. Niemyer Award, highlighting the impact of his efforts on patient care and clinical practice. The protocol has also attracted attention beyond NHTP; it was submitted to the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Journal, where it is currently under review for publication.

“If published, I hope other facilities implement our protocol,” Biddix said. “Disseminating quality improvement projects is vital for advancing nursing practice and sharing lessons learned across the healthcare community.”

Now stationed with Fleet Surgical Team Nine in San Diego, Biddix continues to champion evidence-based practice in perioperative nursing. Reflecting on his experience at NHTP, he encourages other Navy nurses to embrace the opportunities provided by smaller facilities to innovate and improve care.

“Even though NHTP is remote, it’s a great place to take on meaningful projects,” Biddix said. “If there’s a process you wish was smoother or a safety concern you want to address, take on the challenge. You might be surprised by the difference you can make.”

Biddix’s work serves as an example of how evidence-based practice can transform patient outcomes, even in resource-limited settings. His commitment to patient safety, innovation, and teamwork possibly helps set a standard of excellence for military healthcare providers.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs

03 December 2024

NORFOLK, Va. —

Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) concluded Fleet 360, marking a significant milestone toward Maritime Operations Center (MOC) certification, November 26, 2025.

Fleet 360 is a scenario-based exercise developed by Naval Warfare Development Center (NWDC) to test fleet readiness in a dynamic and contested environment. Designed to replicate real-world threats, the exercise challenges participants with evolving scenarios that require rapid decision-making, collaboration, and adaptability.

The exercise aligns with the Chief of Naval Operations’ Navigation Plan, which emphasizes the importance of the MOC and our ability to identify adversary threats and to quickly develop options for the commander in areas including integrated targeting, synchronized maneuver, and contested logistics.

“Since our reestablishment in 2018, U.S. 2nd Fleet has consistently driven innovation in collaboration with fleet partners, NATO Allies, and regional partners,” said Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet. “Each exercise, like Fleet 360, enhances our readiness and ensures we remain a reliable force for our Allies.”

MOCs serve as the nerve centers for fleet operations, enabling command and control across a range of missions. C2F’s MOC collaborates with U.S. Fleet Forces Command and various type commands, such as Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, Commander Naval Surface Force Atlantic and Commander, Naval Submarine Force Atlantic, to assemble robust Carrier Strike Groups and Amphibious Ready Groups. These units are equipped to respond to crises swiftly, supporting national and allied interests.

“Fleet 360 is an essential step in achieving maritime operations center certification for U.S. 2nd Fleet,” said Capt. Holly Yudisky, C2F’s Maritime Operations Center Director. “The Fleet 360 scenarios created critical learning experiences that will advance our ability to plan and conduct Maritime Homeland Defense operations during crisis or conflict.”

NWDC provides each commander and staff the opportunity to exercise the operational planning process and rehearse operational plans against a thinking adversary in a free-play environment. This ultimately enhances each MOC’s warfighting readiness at the operational level and prepares the staff for real world operations across the seven joint warfighting functions.

Reestablished in response to a changing global security environment, U.S. 2nd Fleet is committed to developing and employing maritime forces capable of multi-domain operations in the Atlantic and Arctic. The Fleet’s efforts ensure access, deter aggression, and defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests.

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

In recognition of the Great American Smokeout, Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) joined the nationwide effort to inspire service members, veterans, and families to quit smoking and adopt healthier lifestyles not just on November 21, but every day of the year.

The annual initiative, spearheaded by the American Cancer Society, emphasizes the significant health benefits of quitting smoking, starting with just one day.

NMCSD’s Health Promotion team offers informational sessions and provides resources to encourage tobacco cessation, aligning with the Smokeout’s actionable pathways to quitting smoking. Participants learn about the immediate and long-term health benefits of quitting, including reduced risks of heart disease, cancer, and other smoking-related illnesses.

“Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful decisions anyone can make for their health,” said Melissa L. McNair, NMCSD’s Department Head, Health and Wellness Department. “Events like the Great American Smokeout allow us to empower our beneficiaries with knowledge and support to make that critical first step.”

Another Reason To Quit

“Beyond a person’s overall health improvements that comes with quitting tobacco, there is also the readiness component for our active duty military,” added McNair. “That is why my staff is ready to support and do their part to contribute to the overall readiness of the force.

Participants in NMCSD’s tobacco cessation courses are offered educational materials detailing the benefits of cessation, including improved lung function, reduced blood pressure, and lower risks of stroke and heart disease. According to experts, even a single day without smoking can lead to measurable improvements in blood pressure and carbon monoxide levels in the blood.

For those ready to quit, NMCSD offers a variety of cessation programs, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapies, and ongoing support groups. These resources are designed to help individuals navigate the challenges of quitting and maintain a smoke-free lifestyle.

The Great American Smokeout serves as a reminder of the Navy’s commitment to the health and readiness of its members. By providing tools and encouragement, NMCSD and other military health facilities play a vital role in helping service members and their families lead healthier lives.

For more information on tobacco cessation programs at NMCSD visit NMCSD’sHealth Education and Disease Prevention at: https://sandiego.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Preventive-Care/Health-and-Wellness/ctl/Details/Mid/54113/ItemID/3704. For resources available through the Great American Smokeout, visit American Cancer Society at https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/tobacco/great-american-smokeout.html.

The mission of NMCSD is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality health care services, and shape the future of military medicine through education, training, and research. NMCSD employs more than 5,000 active-duty military personnel, civilians, and contractors in southern California to provide patients with world-class care. Anchored in Excellence, Committed to Health!

Source: United States Navy (Medical)

SIGONELLA, Italy – Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Kirk Ashley Young from Naval Medical Research Unit (NAMRU) EURAFCENT was announced as the Navy Medicine Research and Development (NMR&D) 2024 Sailor of the Year (SOY), in October.

Young, the command’s leading petty officer was selected amongst the eight NMR&D commands.

“This is a big accomplishment for the command,” said Young. “It is very rewarding and motivating that all our hard work is recognized by our leaders.”

“NAMRU EURAFCENT is one of the best commands I have ever worked at. Military and civilians, they are the most dedicated, hardworking, and most approachable people. I am very grateful for my command for giving me the opportunity to learn, to fail, and to be better,” he added.

Young, who is stationed at NAMRU EURAFCENT’s Sigonella, Italy-based headquarters is a biomedical equipment technician and a command equipment manager. He is responsible for managing medical equipment and ensuring operational readiness at NAMRU EURAFCENT and its remote lab sites, which support missions across 22 countries in Africa Command (AFRICOM), Central Command (CENTCOM), and European Command (EUCOM) areas of responsibility.

“This is a fantastic recognition of both his character and competence, as well as the achievements that he has been able to accomplish as part of this team,” said Capt. Virginia Blackman, commanding officer, NAMRU EURAFCENT.

“Thanks not only to HM1 [Young] for his consistent excellence in performance, but also to Chief [Gene] Nuevo for mentoring and guiding him, to Ms. Marian Mikhail for her partnership and collaboration on equipment maintenance and management, to Lt. Cmdr. [Robert] Hontz for facilitating his participation in the board from Ghana, and to all who have helped him achieve,” added Blackman.

As part of other recognitions, Young was also named Sailor of the Quarter (2nd Quarter) in 2021 while stationed at U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Guam, formerly known as the U.S. Naval Hospital Guam.

The “Sailor of the Year” is a time-honored tradition introduced by Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet in 1972. This annual competition is held to recognize the superior performance of individual Sailors, who excel in personifying the ideals of the Navy Core Values.

NAMRU EURAFCENT conducts infectious disease research and surveillance to study, monitor and detect emerging and re-emerging disease threats of military and public health importance, and to develop mitigation strategies against these threats in partnership with host nations and international and U.S. agencies in U.S. AFRICOM, CENTCOM, and EUCOM areas of responsibility with staff located in Italy, Ghana and in Egypt.