KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – In an environment where the correct diagnosis and information is critical, Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Terrance Orange is the go-to guy for diagnostic success.
Whether it is operating X-ray equipment, performing basic diagnostic radiographs, or processing X-ray films, Orange spends most of his time assisting doctors and senior medical personnel with the assessment and diagnosis of a hospital’s patients.
Before patients even receive proper treatment, Orange stays a couple steps ahead of them by setting up and conducting the scans needed for proper treatment.
He is ready for whatever may come into the hospital.
“We really are the first line of diagnostic success, almost like gatekeepers,” he said with a smile. “It’s a great role, I enjoy the challenge and position I am in.”
Orange, currently serving at the Role 3 NATO Multi-Medical Unit hospital, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, was recently named one of the service members of the month at the hospital, for his leadership and work ethic during his current deployment overseas.
He talked about being named service member of the month, and the feeling he gets serving in the medical field.
“I am happy to be honored most definitely,” Orange said. “I love what I do, and every day I think to myself, ‘I am doing the right thing.’”
Although he deems the work as sometimes “stressful,” Orange appreciates the ability to work in a “hands on” career field.
“Working with patients, and intermingling with them, as well as the other branches of service that work here, is a great experience for me. It is definitely helping me gain valuable experience,” he said.
Orange works at the Naval Branch Health Clinic in Atsugi, Japan, which provides primary health services, dental services and flight medicine to approximately 30 commands.
That experience, along with his current deployment, is what Orange hopes to propel him to a future career as a physician’s assistant in the civilian world.
“Being in the Navy has been a great experience for me, especially in the medical field,” he said. “It is setting me up for what I want to do later on in life.”
When he is not working, Orange takes time to further his education with courses, with the goal of finishing school and progressing his career.
“I’ve been in for five years and everywhere I have been has provided me with great experiences and opportunities,” Orange said. “I am excited to continue my work here and hope for a successful future.”