MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Kayman Welsh, a native of Brooklyn, New York, serves with Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Sigonella, Italy, where Welsh supports operational readiness as a hospital corpsman.
Welsh said her childhood experiences have served her well in the Navy and life.
“Growing up in Grenada and later moving back to Brooklyn, where I worked at Costco, taught me the value of hard work, discipline, and perseverance,” Welsh said. “Those experiences shaped my mindset and prepared me for the Navy. They showed me that no matter where you start, with dedication and belief in yourself, you can achieve your goals and build a better future.”
Welsh graduated high school from St. Rose Modern Secondary School, later finishing an associates degree at T. A. Marryshow Community College in 2026. She joined the Navy three years ago, and today serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I was inspired to join the Navy because I wanted to serve something greater than myself while pursuing a meaningful career in healthcare,” Welsh said. “I have always had a passion for helping others, and Navy Medicine gave me the opportunity to turn that passion into purpose. Becoming a hospital corpsman allowed me to directly support Sailors and care for those who serve our country. I was especially drawn to surgical technology because it requires precision, trust, and teamwork, and it places you in a position to make a real difference in someone’s life. The Navy has challenged me to grow, pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and given me opportunities I never imagined possible. Serving in Navy Medicine allows me to combine my commitment to service with my passion for healthcare, and it motivates me every day to be part of something that truly matters.”
According to Navy officials, NMRTC’s mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research.
USNMRTC 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, USNMRTC 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.
Navy Medicine – represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian health care professionals – provides enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighter on, below and above the sea and ashore.
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.
Welsh has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment so far in my Navy career has been earning my surgical technologist qualification while completing both my associate’s and bachelor’s degrees,” Welsh said. “Balancing my education with my responsibilities in the Navy took discipline, commitment, and hard work. These accomplishments helped me grow both personally and professionally and showed me what I can achieve. It makes me proud to know that through the Navy, I was able to accomplish my educational and professional goals while continuing to serve.”
Welsh serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Wearing the uniform and serving in today’s Navy means being part of something bigger than myself and contributing to a mission that truly matters,” Welsh said. “It represents commitment, resilience, and the responsibility to uphold the values of those who served before me and those who serve beside me now. The Navy has challenged me to grow, strengthen my character, and given me a sense of purpose. Every day I wear the uniform, I am motivated to give my best and represent the Navy with pride, knowing I am part of a team dedicated to service and excellence.”
Welsh had this to say for anyone back home considering a career in Navy Medicine.
“I would encourage them not to be afraid to take the first step and believe in their potential,” Welsh said. “Navy Medicine provides the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, gain valuable medical skills, and serve with purpose. It challenges you to step outside your comfort zone, builds your confidence, and helps you discover what you’re truly capable of. Joining the Navy was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it was a life-changing experience that opened doors and created opportunities I never imagined possible while allowing me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
“I was born in New York and grew up in Grenada, and that cultural background shaped my values and work ethic. I speak Caribbean dialect and am certified in phlebotomy, surgical technology, and basic life support.”
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/