FORT CARSON, Colo. – The NATO Medical Evaluation (MEDEVAL) Course successfully concluded at Fort Carson on May 8, 2025, after two weeks of intensive training and evaluation. This marks the second consecutive year that the United States has hosted the course, further solidifying Fort Carson’s role as a hub for NATO medical training.
The course, hosted by the 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB), brought together 40 students from eight NATO countries, representing a wide range of ranks, from E-5 to O-6. Participants included joint forces from the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Navy, as well as Advisors from across the SFAC enterprise and additional Army units. The diverse cohort fostered an environment of collaboration and knowledge exchange among multinational medical professionals.
Developed by NATO MILMEDCOE, Budapest, Hungary, the MEDEVAL Course trains personnel to evaluate operational medical units under NATO standards, ensuring interoperability and consistency across the alliance. The curriculum combines hands-on training with classroom instruction, teaching students to lead and participate in evaluation teams. Using NATO’s Medical Evaluation Manual tool, participants learn the process of validating and certifying medical units under rigorous NATO standards.
“Coordinating and facilitating the NATO MEDEVAL Course at Fort Carson has been an incredible opportunity for our Advisors and our multinational partners,” said Master Sgt. Doreen Fajota, brigade senior enlisted medical Advisor in 4th SFAB. “This course not only enhances our medical readiness but also strengthens our ability to work seamlessly alongside NATO Allies in complex and challenging environments. Our commitment to building interoperability remains unwavering, and the dedication shown by the students throughout the training is a testament to their professionalism and drive to excel.”
The first cohort of students concluded their training with a simulation exercise at Evans Army Community Hospital, where they applied their skills in a controlled medical environment. The second cohort faced a more complex final exercise during Mountain Medic, a simulated large-scale combat operation (LSCO) that integrated joint medical support from the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Navy. This exercise challenged students to apply their medical evaluation skills under realistic and stressful conditions, reflecting the complexities of modern warfare.
“The course follows a crawl-walk-run approach, which has been incredibly valuable,” said Capt. Madeline Nalley, brigade nurse with 3rd SFAB. “It’s been beneficial to see the concepts in writing, practice them in the classroom, and then move into real-world applications. Working alongside the Air Force, Navy, and our NATO allies allowed us to put what we learned into practice and truly understand its impact in a simulated LSCO environment.”
The successful completion of this year’s MEDEVAL Course underscores NATO’s commitment to building a unified and medically proficient force. Graduates are now certified as NATO evaluators, prepared to support medical readiness across multinational operations.
The 4th SFAB’s Medical Advisors continue to demonstrate their commitment to enhancing readiness and building medical capabilities within the brigade and across NATO operations. By participating in the MEDEVAL Course, they not only strengthen their skills but also contribute to the broader goal of maintaining a cohesive and proficient medical force within the alliance. Through continuous training and collaboration, the 4th SFAB remains at the forefront of medical interoperability within NATO.
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