The Order of Military Medical Merit is a unique private organization founded by the Commanding General of U.S. Army Health Services Command in April 1982 to recognize excellence and promote fellowship and esprit de corps among Army Medical Department (AMEDD) personnel. Membership in the Order denotes distinguished service which is recognized by the senior leadership of the AMEDD. Members are given a certificate and a handsome medallion that signifies to all they meet that they are members of the Order. You will see members proudly display their medallions at formal AMEDD social functions.

MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA: Membership in the Order recognizes those individuals who have clearly demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and moral character, displayed an outstanding degree of professional competence, served in the Army Medical Department (for a minimum of 10 years) with selflessness, and have made a sustained contribution to the betterment of Army Medicine. Any Active Duty, Reserve Component, civilian or retired member of the Army Medical Department who, through dedicated application of talent, effort, and spirit, has made a significant contribution having an impact on the whole of the AMEDD, shall be eligible for induction into the Order. Active duty and Reserve Component Soldiers must have demonstrated appropriate Soldiering skills and obtained military education commensurate with their rank. 18Ds, Special Forces Aidmen, are eligible for induction into the Order. A contract employee is not eligible. An individual, whose status is other than the aforementioned association with the AMEDD and who otherwise meets the above criteria, shall be eligible for induction as an honorary member. Honorary members are not eligible to nominate others for the Order. Any member of the Order in good standing may nominate other worthy individuals for induction.

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This is an honor that was not given to very many "mere" LTCs, especially not those of us who were not in Command Staff positions. I certainly did not expect it. I was nominated by the Hospital Command at WBAMC. I am very grateful for the confidence, appreciation and respect that they showed to me in this and other ways.