Photos

240815-N-QW460-1104

There was a ceremonial change followed by a fond farewell held for Navy Medicine Readiness Training Command Bremerton, August 15, 2024. Capt. Patrick Fitzpatrick was relieved by Capt. Karla M. Lepore during an official ceremony at Naval Undersea Warfare Center auditorium, proceeded by his retirement after 32 years of active duty service. Fitzpatrick, a Navy Nurse Corps officer from Missoula, Mont., served as Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Bremerton commanding officer and Naval Hospital Bremerton director, leading a team of approximately 930 Navy Medicine and Defense Health Agency personnel, from July 2021 to August 2024. Lepore, from Phoenix, Ariz., assumes command from her recent role of deputy director, Navy Medical Service Corps at Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Falls Church, Va. "His leadership, judgment and devotion to duty have been an inspiration to his team, along with the continued excellence in innovative quality care to their warfighters and their families," exclaimed Rear Adm. Guido Valdes, Commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific, Director, Defense Health Network Pacific Rim, chief of Navy Medical Corps and guest speaker for the event. "You should be proud of all you've accomplished in your 32 year career that is coming to an end today," continued Valdes. "As we bid farewell to Capt. Fitzpatrick, we welcome Capt. Lepore, an accomplished naval officer and medical professional who has served with distinction in various assignments. She brings a wealth of experience, energetic pride and passion for providing exceptional care." (Official Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jennifer Benedict, NHB/NMRTC Bremerton public affairs)