Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort Executive Officer Capt. Mary Jean Herden and Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Boynton share thoughts on upcoming deployment after a presentation of teddy bears (among the 650 teddies delivered) from Hugs Across America by Director Sue Lucarelli.

Hugs donated bears for future child patients on Comfort’s upcoming deployment during a multi month humanitarian assistance tour to the US Southern Command area of responsibility.  The ships commanding officers, both Pediatricians, were delighted to have teddies available to ease the anxiety and pain of  injured or sick youngsters who will receive medical treatment aboard the hospital ship as they tour around the world. The Comfort is the 5th largest hospital in the US, and includes 12 operating rooms.  Truly an amazing ship with an equally amazing mission!

The monies for purchaes of these bears were given by Dr. Judy De Felice in honor of her friend Jean Battle.   Jean Battle, a civilian employee of the United States Navy, worked first as a steward, then an ordinary seaman and most recently as a mate steering an oil tanker on the high seas until her retirement in 200l. Jean’s fondest wish was to join the staff of the USNS Comfort but  passed away in 2006.  We are honored to share her wish in this way.

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