TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Twentynine Palms recognized Hospitalman Hanna Parkos as Blue Jacket of the 3rd Quarter, highlighting her contributions to occupational health, patient care and operational readiness.

Parkos works in the occupational health department, where she supports active-duty service members and civilian employees whose work is essential to installation operations. Her daily responsibilities include performing audiograms, pulmonary function testing, electrocardiograms, vision screenings and vital signs for personnel, including firefighters and law enforcement officers.

“My work contributes to the mission by helping ensure that personnel are ready to safely perform their duties,” Parkos said. “I feel that my role supports both patient care and overall readiness of key MCAGCC (Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center) Twentynine Palms functions.”

Occupational health plays an important role in protecting the health and safety of the workforce by helping ensure personnel are medically prepared to perform the specific demands of their jobs. For Parkos, the position has also provided an opportunity to expand her clinical knowledge and develop new skills.

“The most rewarding part of my job is being able to help patients while continuing to learn and develop new skills,” Parkos said. “I enjoy gaining more knowledge and experience in my role because it helps me grow professionally and take better care of patients.”

Parkos joined the Navy three years ago after a longstanding interest in health care and a desire to serve in the military. She said Navy Medicine provided an opportunity to pursue both.

“I have always wanted to work in health care, and joining the Navy gave me the opportunity to combine my interest in health care with serving in the military,” Parkos said.

Military service is also part of Parkos’ family. Her husband currently serves in the Navy as an aviation boatswain’s mate (handling).

Parkos joined NMRTC Twentynine Palms in October 2025. She credits her leadership and those around her with helping her grow since arriving at the command and said being named Blue Jacket of the Quarter was meaningful recognition of that support and development.

“Being selected as Blue Jacket of the Quarter means a lot to me,” Parkos said. “I felt very happy and grateful. I am also thankful for my leadership and the support and guidance they have given me.”

Her experiences have also shaped the advice she would offer other Sailors beginning their careers.

“Always be willing to learn and never be afraid to ask questions,” Parkos said. “Take advantage of every opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge and be open to learning from the people around you.”

Outside of work, Parkos enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and hiking with her dogs, Koda and Buck.

As Parkos continues developing her skills in occupational health, her work supports NMRTC Twentynine Palms’ mission of maintaining a medically ready force and ensuring personnel across Navy and Marine Corps are prepared to safely carry out their missions.

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