U.S. Army Reserve Major Carlos Ramirez-Barrios was recently inducted into the prestigious Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3) at the U.S. Army Medical Department (AMEDD) Museum. The induction recognizes his 18 years of exceptional service and his significant contributions to the AMEDD community. Maj. Ramirez-Barrios was joined at the ceremony by his wife, Jesmarie, and their two children, Jeslymar and Dereck.

The O2M3 is a private organization that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and moral character while making significant contributions to Army Medicine. The ceremony was attended by senior leaders, including Col. Nakia Reddin, Army South (ARSOUTH) Amy Reserve Engagement Cell (AREC) Director, and Col. Norberto Rodriguez, ARSOUTH Command Surgeon.

Lt. Col Brian Pamintuan, ARSOUTH Medical Logistics Officer, praised Ramirez’s reputation for teamwork and determination. "Since Carlos came to ARSOUTH in 2021, we’ve put him in nearly every major operation- it’s because he truly understands our systems and knows exactly how to meet our mission."

A graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Ramirez has spent 18 years bridging the gap between medical operations and strategic readiness. His career is highlighted by his leadership and planning efforts during the CAT 5 Hurricane Maria, where his management of operations for 12,000 patients earned him the title of "Hero of the Hurricane," an honor he received at the 2017 Army-Navy football game.

Since joining Army South in 2021, Ramirez has become a cornerstone of regional medical planning. He served as the lead planner for PANAMAX 24 and was instrumental in integrating Army Reserve capabilities into multinational exercises like Southern Vanguard 24 and TRADEWINDS 24. Whether leading the JTF-Southern Guard Surgeon Cell or coordinating complex logistics for over 170 personnel, his efforts have consistently expanded the medical footprint of the U.S. Southern Command while strengthening partnerships across Central and South America.

For Ramirez, the induction is a significant milestone in his family’s military journey. He noted that his transition to the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) program in 2018 and his work within the SOUTHCOM Area of Responsibility have been vital to his growth.

"It means sacrifice, hard work, and commitment," he said. "Representing the Army Reserve and providing opportunities to medical units in participating in exercises is a challenging experience that has broadened both my knowledge and leadership skills.” Ramirez doesn’t take all of the credit for his success though. “I feel that it’s all been possible because of my family support, my leadership and the fantastic community here in Joint Base San Antonio and Fort Sam Houston.” When asked what is next for Ramirez and his family, he said, “It feels like we just started, so I’m excited to see what the future holds.”