**BRIDGEPORT, Calif.** — Soldiers assigned to veterinary readiness operations conducted critical animal care and food protection support at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, helping sustain operational readiness and strengthen the profession through specialized military service.
The team — LTC Calkins, 1SG Trujillo, SGT Carrion and CPL Rodriguez — carried out veterinary support operations focused on the care and readiness of horses used at the training center. Their work included physical examinations, blood work collection and vaccine administration for 53 horses, ensuring the animals remained medically ready to support ongoing missions.
Military veterinary services play a key role in maintaining operational capability, particularly in environments where animal support remains essential to training and mission execution. By completing the examinations and preventive care, the team helped preserve the health and reliability of the horses supporting activities at the Mountain Warfare Training Center.
In addition to the animal care mission, 1SG Trujillo conducted MILSANS and Meals, Ready-to-Eat inspections, identifying issues and actions that saved the training center more than $20,000. The inspections supported food safety and accountability efforts, reinforcing the Army’s broader food protection mission.
Officials said the operation reflected the professionalism and technical expertise required to sustain readiness across multiple mission areas. The team’s efforts demonstrated how veterinary and food inspection personnel contribute directly to military effectiveness, from animal health to resource stewardship.
The mission also underscored a continued commitment to service and support overseas, highlighting the importance of experienced soldiers who strengthen the profession through readiness, accountability and specialized care.