As they remember moments of doubt, overwhelming stress, and the emotional toll of being non-commissioned officers (NCOs), these Soldiers and former Soldiers juxtapose their tales against the camaraderie of guiding and serving alongside their younger Soldiers. As storytellers, they peel back layers to reveal their transformation from individuals to mentors and leaders, contemplating the sacrifices made and the enduring relationships forged in the crucible of service. I extend my gratitude to the 1st Infantry Division, renowned as the Big Red One, for the distinction of proclaiming 2023 as the Year of the NCO. Their acknowledgment of the NCO has been the catalyst for this endeavor. A particular note of appreciation is reserved for the seven NCOs who, with unwavering candor, traversed the terrain of personal introspection. It is not taken for granted. Audio files in order of appearance: 'Permafrost' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. 'Last And First Light' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. 'Victor Lux' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. #YearofTheNCO #br1ynco #fortriley #armymedicine

On the morning of Aug. 25, IACH civilians had the opportunity to lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement alongside the Soldiers and leadership of Irwin Army Community Hospital. This was a chance to not only witness but actively participate in the disciplined spirit that defines our medical community. The Llamarama Fun Run was a dynamic kickstart to IACH’s Organizational Day. It set the tone for what would become a day of memorable team-building activities, laughter, and collective rejuvenation. In the world of healthcare, opportunities like these are rare gems. It was more than just a jog; it was a chance to run with purpose and unite with colleagues. #IACHfunrun #MedicsOnTheMove #TraumaLlamas Music by Scott Buckley (@ScottBuckley) – released under CC-BY 4.0.

Many years ago when she was in the U.S. Air Force, Dr. Eva Ewers yearned to extend her healing touch to the civilian realm. The day finally arrived when she completed her service, transitioning into the vibrant world of civilian healthcare, brimming with possibilities. With great resolve, Dr. Ewers launched her civilian medical career, eager to make an indelible impact on the lives of young patients. But the intricacies of navigating the labyrinthine medical insurance landscape posed a formidable challenge, hindering her from wholeheartedly focusing on her true calling—providing compassionate care. Serendipity intervened as Dr. Ewers embarked on a new chapter, venturing into the heartland of Kansas. It was here that her purpose aligned with destiny, leading her back to military medicine as a civilian practitioner at Irwin Army Community Hospital. Within the walls of IACH, Dr. Ewers not only practices the art she adores but also embraces the responsibility of caring for the children of deployed Soldiers—those brave warriors who selflessly safeguard our cherished freedoms. #fortriley #armymedicine Music by Scott Buckley (@ScottBuckley) – released under CC-BY 4.0.

Wendy Hampton, a clinical social worker, understands how social media can be used to help isolated youth remain connected to distant friends, especially if they're military kids. But her experience with youth indicates that social media is overwhelmingly more harmful than good. She sees a close link between mental health problems and the overuse of social media in youth. How do kids outsmart their parents? What's a parent to do? How invasive should parents be with their teens? Should some platforms be off-limits? #fortriley #armymedicine Music by Scott Buckley (@ScottBuckley) – released under CC-BY 4.0.

The Fort Riley Department of Public Health (DPH) is schedule to run its last flu vaccine clinic Dec. 13. In conjunction with the flu vaccine, DPH will also offer a limited number of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. Moreover, for the convenience of federal government civilian employees, the DPH is extending walk-in flu vaccine services on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through December 14 at Caldwell Clinic, Fort Riley.

It's Open Season -- Now's the time to reassess your healthcare options and make informed decision for the well-being of your family. If you live within a 30-minute radius of Irwin Army Community Hospital, here are three reasons why you should enroll with Irwin Army Community Hospital.

We regret to inform you that, due to current staffing shortages, the Urgent Care Clinic, also known as Fast Track Service, at Irwin Army Community Hospital has been discontinued.  We have, however, increased our access for acute care in the primary care clinic.  We encourage you to book an appointment on the patient portal for either a virtual or in person visit.  If there are no appointments available in the portal, we encourage you to call the appointment line or speak with a nurse who works with your primary care provider.  

Mark your calendars for upcoming flu vaccine events for beneficiaries aged 6 months and older. Children aged 6 months and older must be accompanied by their legal guardian to receive a flu vaccine. For detailed information on these events, please visit the Irwin Army Community Hospital Facebook page closer to each event. Service Members will receive their flu vaccine from their Unit Medical and not at Community Events.

It’s important to understand your TRICARE health plan options so you can choose the right coverage for your family. Here are some things to consider when you research your options.

Have you reviewed your TRICARE coverage for 2024? Now is the time, because TRICARE Open Season ends Dec. 12. Open season may be your only chance to enroll in TRICARE coverage or change your health plan for 2024.

For many people, the holiday season brings expectations of joy. But for some, the holidays may be a time of stress, sadness, or isolation. Life events like the deployment of a spouse, the loss of a loved one, and complex family dynamics can affect how we feel during the holiday season.

TRICARE Open Season is here. Now through Dec. 12, most people enrolled in or eligible for TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select can make enrollment changes for next year. Open season doesn’t apply to everyone who uses TRICARE.