Dentists serving patients, state and country
WV Army National Guard visits dental school
As part of their introduction to professional dentistry, the first-year students at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry learned of a unique opportunity for those who are also interested in serving their state and country.
Through the West Virginia Army National Guard, dental school graduates who commit to service could be eligible for a bonus, loan repayment or stipends.
Major Gerald Clark, a 1997 dental school alumnus, dismissed the idea of becoming a member of the Guard when he was beginning dental school. Now in his 8th year of active service, Clark explained what changed his mind.
Clark was joined by Col. Todd Fredricks, Maj. Tyler Vaughn and Capt. Jon Lopez.
Dr. Fredricks, a doctor of osteopathic medicine and faculty member at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, provided his perspective and discussed the need for dentists to support the medical readiness of National Guard soldiers.
National Guard members who are part of the Dental Corp ensure that each soldier is in optimal health in preparation for deployment and assist in the emergency medical management of combat and noncombat casualties.