FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) hosted its fall Maternity Fair this past weekend drawing 564 expectant parents family members and supporters to connect with hospital departments and community partners. The biannual event supports military family readiness by equipping parents with essential education hands-on demonstrations and resources to promote safe pregnancies\, informed decision-making and healthy infant care. The next fair is scheduled for April 2027.
The fair featured specialized classes, including the Period of PURPLE Crying, Getting Ready for Baby, Safe Sleep, and Infant Massage provided by Army Community Service. Attendees also received medication safety guidance from the WAMC Pharmacy, car seat safety inspections conducted by Fort Bragg Fire and Emergency Services, and guided tours of the Labor and Delivery unit, alongside exhibits from more than 30 participating support services.
"Family readiness is operational readiness," said Col. Kane Morgan, WAMC commander, who engaged with families and garrison agencies during the event. "This maternity fair showcases the seamless partnership between Womack's clinical teams and installation support services. Together, we are ensuring our service members, and their families have the robust, trusted resources they need to thrive."
Capt. Tinita Harvey, the event’s officer in charge, emphasized the collaborative spirit of the event.
“Saturday was more than a maternity fair — it was a celebration of new beginnings, growing families, and the strength of our military community,” Harvey said. “Bringing services together in one location allowed families to connect, ask questions, and receive guidance throughout their journey. Through the dedication of our healthcare team, community partners, and volunteers, we created a day filled with connection and support.”
Attendees expressed appreciation for the convenience of accessing diverse services under one roof. Jacques Wheeler, an expectant parent, noted the practical value of the event.
“It was very informative, and we are leaving with a lot of educational materials and support from the community,” Wheeler said.
Clinical staff offered specialized guidance during the fair. Dental residents Capt. Andy Yoo and Capt. Darielle Costa provided counseling on oral health for both mothers and infants. Yoo emphasized that routine dental care is safe during pregnancy and encouraged early oral hygiene for newborns. “Prevention is key,” Yoo said.
Pharmacy technician Cherdaria Wier highlighted medication safety protocols, noting significant interest in a visual display showcasing over-the-counter medications that should be avoided during pregnancy.
“Many attendees took photos of the cabinet to reference later at home,” Wier said.
The Fort Bragg Blood Donor Center also participated, emphasizing the vital role of blood donation during maternal emergencies and the potential for donated blood to save lives in cases of postpartum hemorrhage.
WAMC provides comprehensive medical care to more than 160,000 beneficiaries across Fort Bragg and the surrounding region. The maternity fair supports the Army’s ongoing commitment to strengthening family readiness and ensuring service members and their families have direct access to evidence-based healthcare throughout pregnancy and early parenthood.
To learn more about Womack Army Medical Center visit https://womack.tricare.mil/
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