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New Skipper Embraces Opportunity to Lead Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi
Story Number: NNS130419-22
4/19/2013

By Bill W. Love, Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi Public Affairs

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (NNS) -- Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi (NHCCC) changed command April 19 when Capt. Jimmy A. Bradley relieved Capt. Gina M. Jaeger during a ceremony that also celebrated her retirement following 30 years of naval service that she began as an enlisted Navy Corpsman.

Rear Admiral Elaine C. Wagner, commander of Navy Medicine East and Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, delivered the keynote remarks before both captains read their orders.

"Today, the mantle of responsibility for this exceptional command, its outstanding crew of dedicated men and women and its very important mission will be placed into your capable hands," she told Bradley. "You are inheriting an experienced and highly motivated crew with a proven track record of success. I have every confidence that with your outstanding leadership skills, your passion for patient-centered initiatives, and your own stellar track record, you will be able to take Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi to the next level. While Captain Jaeger has left big high heels for you to fill, she has also set you up for success - so the sky's the limit!"

Bradley, a native of Jacksonville, N.C., enlisted in the Navy in 1977. He was commissioned as an ensign in the Medical Service Corps (MSC) in 1987, and is a Fellow and a Credentialed Healthcare Administrator in the American Academy of Medical Administrators. His most recent assignment was serving as executive officer, U.S. Naval Hospital Naples, Italy.

During Bradley's opening remarks, he embraced the opportunity to lead NHCCC and its staff.

"I am deeply humbled and honored to be your new skipper. We have great responsibilities to the Sailors, service members and other beneficiaries we care for," he said. "I look forward to linking arms with you and moving lock step forward in support of our mission, delivering healthcare for the world's most deserving patients, exploring jointness, value and readiness; all while being part of a Global Force for Good."

Bradley added his appreciation for sharing the stage with Wagner as well as Rear Admiral Eleanor V. Valentin, the director of the Military Health System (MHS) Governance Implementation Planning Executive Secretariat, assigned to the Under Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.

"It is an honor and a privilege to share the stage with each of you, and I am thrilled that you took time out of your very busy schedules to be here with the staff of this great command this morning," he said.

Valentin, guest speaker for Jaeger's retirement ceremony, has been her mentor through the years.

"In 1985, Gina and I met and became friends," said Valentin. "Gina, you are known for looking out for your people, as people come first, and you take care of your staff and those entrusted to your care. They say that you are fair and always see the good in people and situations."

Jaeger has served as commanding officer (CO), NHCCC since July 15, 2011. She was the first female MSC CO and the third female to oversee the command in its 72 year history. A native of Pottsville, Pa., she enlisted in the Navy in 1982, and was commissioned as a lieutenant junior grade, Medical Service Corps in 1987.

"Thank you for your dedication to duty and honorable service to our country," said Valentin. "Navy Medicine will not forget your contributions in shaping healthcare for the Military Health System. Those whose lives you touched will not forget you. They will emulate you as a leader and will carry on the traditions you have passed on to preserve."


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For more news from Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi, visit www.navy.mil/local/nhcc/.