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A Message from the Navy Surgeon General: Celebrating 111 years of the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps

by Navy Medicine | 09 May 2019

by Navy Medicine | 09 May 2019

On behalf of Navy Medicine, congratulations to the 4,000 men and women of our Navy Nurse Corps family on your 111th anniversary. Established on May 13, 1908, Navy nurses deliver the highest standard of world-class care to our Sailors and Marines around the world in a variety of environments. As we celebrate your anniversary this year, let us all reflect on the career of Rear Admiral Arlene Duerk, the first female flag officer in the United States Navy and the 12th Director of the Nurse Corps, who passed away on July 21, 2018 at the age of 98. She is known to have said that her time aboard the USS Benevolence (AH-13) assisting in the processing of liberated Allied prisoners of war in 1945 was her most exciting experience and solidified her commitment to nursing and patient care. Rear Admiral Duerk was a strong and dedicated trail blazer who embodied the very principles that continue to guide Navy Medicine today. To those who have previously served and those currently serving in our Nurse Corps, thank you for your unbridled compassion and enduring commitment to the care of our service members and their families. Each of you is integral to the success of Navy Medicine and I am extremely honored and proud to serve with you. Happy 111th birthday, Shipmates! Released by Vice Admiral C. Forrest Faison III, Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery

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