Defense Health Agency-Public Health Director Sara Newman promoted to rear admiral

By Tanisha Blaise, Defense Health Agency-Public Health

U.S. Public Health Service Rear Adm. Sara Newman, Defense Health Agency-Public Health director, was promoted to her current rank during a ceremony at the Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia, Sept. 25, 2026.

Retired U.S. Public Health Service Rear Adm. Tracy L. Farrill, director of DHA’s Office of Warfighter Health Advantage, served as the presiding officer, providing remarks and sharing the impact of Newman’s work. U.S. Public Health Service Capt. Sukhminder Sandhu, chief scientist officer, served as the master of ceremonies for the event, echoing leadership’s sentiments.

“Rear Adm. Sara Newman's achievements throughout her career have brought her to this moment, the well-deserved recognition of her promotion to flag officer. This achievement honors not only her individually but also reflects the strength and excellence of our category and the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps as a whole.”

As DHA-PH director, Newman oversees the execution of public health activities across the entire Department of War in support of all service members, DOW families, civilians, and working animals. With more than 30 years of public health experience, Newman’s career includes academic research, emergency response, occupational safety, infectious disease control, environmental health, and health promotion.

Prior to her assignment with DHA-PH, Newman served as the director of the Office of Health and Safety for the National Park Service, where she served as the senior health and safety authority for the NPS. She was responsible for leading employee safety, public health protection, disease prevention, employee wellness, and emergency response policy and programs.

Newman’s three daughters, Sharon, Emily, and Carolyn, pinned on her new rank. Newman was joined by her husband, David, and supported by many family members, friends and colleagues.

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.