CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. –
Navy Capt. Peter F. Roberts was relieved by Navy Capt. Jenny S. Burkett as Commander of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command and as Director of Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton during a Change of Command Ceremony August 4, 2023.
The ceremony was held outdoors in the hospital’s Medal of Honor Mall with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.
The guest speaker for the event was Rear Adm. Guido F. Valdes, commander, Naval Medical Forces Pacific, and Director of the San Diego Market.
“Perhaps the most rewarding milestones and positions to have in the Navy is that of holding command,” Valdes said. “A commanding officer’s decisions and actions directly impact the readiness and well-being of those who defend our Nation. It is a sacred trust.”
Speaking of Roberts’ time in command, Valdes added, “The combined execution of patient care, training, research, and operational readiness requires great skill and expertise, and Captain Roberts has performed exceptionally with grace and poise.”
Valdes then welcomed the new commander, “Captain Burkett brings a wealth of experience, energetic drive, and a passion for providing exceptional care. She is well-prepared to meet the challenges that lay ahead and to continue the legacy of excellence at NMRTC Camp Pendleton.”
Roberts then gave his detaching remarks where he thanked his family, mentors, and hospital staff.
“I need to thank so many people for what has been accomplished here at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton over the past two years,” Roberts said.
He went on to talk about the challenges and successes achieved during his time in command.
“Two years ago, we had barricades at the front entrance, limited access point to the hospital, [and] care being delivered in expeditionary tents in the parking lots,” he said.
“From providing critical medical support to our service members and beneficiaries to extending as much support as possible to the commands we support in the field and across our bases, this command has had a profound impact,” Roberts added. “Nearly 2000 babies were brought into this world right there [pointing to the hospital], 1.5 million patient encounters occurred, and more than 16,000 person-days were provided for refugee and COVID support across the country.”
Roberts will transfer to the Office of the Naval Inspector General at the Washington Navy Yard in the District of Columbia.
After reading her orders and assuming command of NMRTC, Burkett gave her remarks and spoke directly to her command, “I am a firm believer in servant leadership. I came here today to support you as the team, working together to achieve our common goals.”
“Each one of you brings your unique skills and abilities to the table,” she added. “I am thrilled to join this amazing team.”
Burkett comes to NHCP from her previous position as the Executive Officer of Naval Hospital Yokosuka, Japan.