MILLINGTON, Tenn. -- Hospitalman Ophelia Harris, a native of Amarillo, Texas, is the Sailor in the Spotlight at U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Sigonella, Italy.
Harris graduated from Amarillo High School in 2017 and Amarillo College in 2023. Harris plans to continue their schooling to become a registered nurse.
Harris joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Harris serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to serve my country and better myself at the same time,” said Harris. “I want to test my limits and reach my full potential as a nurse, a person and as a sailor.”
Harris said serving in the military has helped them grow as a person and in their career.
“I was always shy and quiet growing up but now I’ve improved in public speaking, and I have accomplished a lot through the Navy,” said Harris. “A hospital corpsman wears many different hats. We can work anywhere from a hospital, ship or in a combat setting. For my job as a hospital corpsman, I assist the nurses in patient care.”
Harris said the great thing about being a hospital corpsman is that every day is different. Harris’ tasks vary from equipment checks and patient assessments to assisting in the delivery of newborns and performing pre- and post-operative screenings.
“My favorite part of my job is learning about labor and delivery, as well as med-surg (medical-surgical) patients,” said Harris. “I really love learning and taking care of newborns.”
Harris is also a patient safety representative, infection control representative and TeamSTEPPS instructor.
“I find satisfaction in knowing that I am part of making sure the patients and health care workers are safe and advocated for,” said Harris. “As a TeamSTEPPS instructor, I have the advantage of improving communication and teamwork skills throughout the hospital and optimizing patient outcomes.”
Harris is in the spotlight for their quick acclimation to NMRTC Sigonella and willingness to pick up additional responsibilities. Harris also helps train and orientate new corpsmen to the floor.
“Being recognized for my hard work and dedication is a big accomplishment because this is my first command and it shows that my efforts are valued and appreciated,” said Harris. “It is an amazing feeling knowing that my work is making a positive impact and being acknowledged by others. Being recognized helps me to keep going and improving my goals.”
U.S. NMRTC Sigonella / Naval Hospital Sigonella is a community hospital located in the heart of the Mediterranean in Sicily, Italy. Comprised of a local satellite clinic and two branch health clinics located in Bahrain and Souda Bay, U.S. NMRTC Sigonella’s staff of 387 serves approximately 8,500 active duty, family members, NATO members, retirees and other beneficiaries based on international collaborations and status of forces agreements.
Harris has quickly made their mark at NMRTC Sigonella in the MSW Department, according to Petty Officer 1st Class Mary Lee-Pruitt, Harris’ leading petty officer. Harris’ commitment to nursing and patient care has been evident since their arrival, with their enthusiasm for learning and their strong work ethic.
“Taking on roles outside her normal job, shows that she is a team player and motivated sailor in the command,” said Lee-Pruitt. “Harris is a great example of an inspiring leader in the Navy.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Harris serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Harris has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment so far is graduating Hospital Corpsman ‘A’ School and being able to be stationed here in Italy for my first command,” said Harris.
Harris can take pride in serving America through military service.
“To me, serving is being a part of something bigger than me and helping as many people as I can,” said Harris.