The Naval Hospital Brem-erton substance abuse rehabilitation program’s department head and his family donated a painting, Feb. 25, to NHB on behalf of their father, a retired master gunnery sergeant.

The Sea Eagle, a painting of a ship at sea in full sail by artist James A. Mitchell III, was presented to the hospital by Cmdr. Mark Russell and his brother, retired Air Force Master Sgt. David Russell, both sons of the late retired Master Gunnery Sgt. Charles M. Russell. 

The painting was accepted by Capt Bill Roberts, NHB’s commanding officer, in a donation ceremony on the hospital quarterdeck.  Also in attendance was David Russell’s brother, Cmdr. Mark Russell, department head for the substance abuse rehabilitation program at NHB.

“I just want to thank NHB for accepting and providing a home for my father’s painting,” said Cmdr. Russell, who didn’t know about the donation until his brother showed up with the painting. “I couldn’t think of a better location for this wonderful piece of art to hang.”

David Russell said his three other brothers and one sister all agreed that the hospital would be the best place for his father’s painting to be kept.  He said his brother Mark wasn’t involved because they wanted to surprise him with the donation.  The late Charles Russell died in 2004 after a decade-long battle with cancer. He began treatment for the disease at NHB.

“I was extremely gratified to learn this United States Marine Corps hero would make such a meaningful contribution to the men and women of NHB,” said Roberts. “This is such a tribute because men and women of Navy medicine have always stood at the side of Marines. Charles Russell clearly recognized and held importance for that.”

The painting is slated to hang on the second floor of the new family practice wing in the corridor leading from the stairwell at NHB. 

“The men and women of Navy medicine and Naval Hospital Bremerton are privileged to serve our Sailors and Marines,” said Roberts. “I’m confident the Sea Eagle will serve as a reminder of just that.”