MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Hospitalman Apprentice Trinity Berlin serving the U.S. Navy assigned to Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF) Bravo, Detachment Twentynine Palms, California, recently participated in Operation Keen Sword in Japan. Berlin's grandparents, Chris and Cindy Simpson, live in Lapeer, Michigan.
Berlin joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Berlin serves as a hospital corpsman.
"I joined the Navy to set myself up for the future and to show my sibling they can do anything," said Berlin.
Expeditionary Medical Facility Bravo is a 150-bed facility that can deploy in support of various combat operations. This year it was deployed in support of Operation Keen Sword and integrated with Japanese Self Defense Forces.
Operation Keen Sword is a biennial exercise that began in 1986 to increase combat readiness and improve the working relationship between U.S. and Japanese forces. This year’s training was expected to draw 12,000 U.S. and 33,000 Japanese troops, 40 vessels and 370 aircraft, according to a Joint Staff news release issued on Sept. 26. This year, U.S. sailors and counterparts, treated Marines and Japanese troops with simulated burn, blast and gunshot wounds from an imagined battle. The combined medical team simulated 100 surgeries, treatment for more than 250 patients, and conducted more than 500 casualty movement events. The combined effort, goodwill, and teamwork contributed to the overall success of the exercise.
"HA Berlin has been an exceptional team player,” said EMF Bravo Command Master Chief Shannon Bia. "Her role was vital in initiating patient tracking inside the casualty receiving area during a recent Expeditionary Medicine exercise."
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.
Berlin 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.”
Berlin has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"I am most proud of making Dean's List (maintaining a 92% or above without any failures) in Hospital Corpsman 'A' School," said Berlin.
Berlin can take pride in serving America through military service.
"Being in the Navy gives me a sense of security and a chance to serve my country," said Berlin.
Berlin is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
"My mom has been my biggest supporter through everything," added Berlin.