Over the last two weeks, Fort Hill High School opened their doors to Soldiers providing services during the Mountain Maryland Medical Mission. This mission is a joint civilian-military operation run by the Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program of the Department of Defense. From July 27 – August 5, they provided free medical, dental, optometry, physical and occupational therapy, vaccinations, and veterinary care to the Western Maryland community and surrounding areas.

"Fort Hill has been honored to house the United States Army here in Allegany County during the Mountain Maryland Medical Mission,” says Candy Canan, principal of Fort Hill High School. “Hosting these dedicated service members during their mission was a privilege, and we are grateful for their commitment in providing critical medical services to our community. Many of our families and students were able to benefit from the services offered, which is a testament to the strong bond between our military and the residents of Allegany County. Fort Hill is proud to have supported them over the past two weeks and to have been able to witness the positive impact they have had on our school community." 

While staying at the school, soldiers were able to take advantage of some special features, including food services, the weight room, and the track. They were even treated to a special art class to offer some relaxation.

"The hospitality of the Fort Hill High School staff was fantastic,” says Captain Kevin Richard, Mission Public Affairs / Operations. “To be able to utilize the facility for the Soldiers assigned to IRT Mountain Maryland was an instrumental aspect to our overall mission success. The Soldiers appreciated being able to utilize the weight room, track, lounges and other aspects of the school during down time to rest and recover after our busy days at the clinic. We cannot say thank you enough to the staff of Fort Hill!"

"I couldn't ask for a better facility and staff to support our Soldiers for the IRT Mountain Maryland Mission,” says Major Kimberly Nadeau, Mission Officer in Charge. “Fort Hill High School was a great location and the staff were wonderfully supportive and responsive. From the initial planning conference through the duration of our stay, Mrs. Candy Canan and Mr. Sean Pumphrey made us feel welcome. I am extremely grateful for them sharing the facility, as it gave our Soldiers rest and recreation following training filled days."