W.T. Sampson School Hosts Medical Field Trip for Students

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Students from W.T. Sampson Elementary and High School gained firsthand experience in various medical fields during a field trip to U.S. Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay on March 10, 2026. The event, organized by Sailors assigned to U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Guantanamo Bay, provided 46 students in grades six through 12 with an immersive appear into clinical and operational roles within military medicine.

Hands-on Learning Across Medical Specialties

Over approximately five hours, students rotated through more than 10 departments, including optometry, obstetrics and gynecology, dental, orthopedics, emergency medicine, primary care, preventive medicine, industrial hygiene, and the veterinary clinic. The field trip combined brief instruction with practical activities, such as examining the human eye with diagnostic equipment and observing veterinary teams at work.

From Disease Transmission to Emergency Response

Students explored diverse aspects of healthcare. In preventive medicine, they examined mosquitoes under a microscope to learn about disease transmission in the region. At the veterinary clinic, they practiced taking vital signs on a dog and discussed food safety protocols. A tour of an ambulance in the emergency department provided insight into emergency response procedures, including siren operation.

Highlighting Essential Support Roles

The event emphasized the breadth of careers within the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and Navy Medicine, extending beyond traditional medical roles to include critical support specialties. Organizers aimed to showcase often-overlooked positions essential to healthcare delivery.

Impact on Sailors and Students

Sailors participating in the event found renewed purpose in their work, noting how students’ curiosity reinforced the impact of their contributions. The visit too strengthened the connection between the hospital and the school community, where many service members and staff have children enrolled.

A Community Investment in Education

Captain James Ketzler, executive officer for U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Guantanamo Bay, emphasized the importance of supporting students’ education as an investment in the future. He highlighted the value of such experiences in inspiring young minds and demonstrating the significance of their work.

Inspiring Curiosity and Learning

Organizers recognized the unique opportunity presented by the geographically isolated location of Guantanamo Bay to foster curiosity, and learning. W.T. Sampson School Principal Chester Arizmendi expressed gratitude for the partnership with Navy Medicine and anticipated future collaborative opportunities.

Strengthening Community Ties and STEM Outreach

The field trip supported ongoing efforts by Navy Medicine and the Defense Health Agency to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) outreach while strengthening ties within the Guantanamo Bay community. The command aims to foster a connection with the community and demonstrate the value of education.

W.T. Sampson School, established in 1931, is the oldest continually operating Department of Defense school [1] and serves approximately 212 students in grades Sure Start through 12 [2]. The school is accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCA) [6].