Our History

Military medicine has a long and celebrated history. We apply lessons from our past to improve the care of military personnel and their families today and in the future. New surgical techniques, powerful painkillers, antibiotic drugs, and triage and evacuation procedures have revolutionized military medicine.

In this section, you'll find featured stories and information about the history of military medicine.

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Video
Dec 19, 2023

The Chosin Few: Recounting the Battle of Chosin Reservoir

The Chosin Few: Recounting the Battle of Chosin Reservoir

General Raymond G Davis and Billy Gene Devasher recount their experiences at the Battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War that occurred from November 26-December 13, 1950. Read more about how military medics saved the "Chosin Frozen" at health.mil/chosin.

Article
Dec 6, 2023

Angels of the Battlefield Honor Medical Personnel Who Went Above Call of Duty

Six medical professionals from across the armed services recently earned honors as Angels of the Battlefield, a title bestowed upon them by the Armed Services-YMCA in honor of military medical personnel and first responders for their life-saving medical treatment and trauma care of service members, partner forces, and civilians at home and abroad.

Video
Dec 6, 2023

Navy Medic Recounts the Attack on Pearl Harbor

Navy Medic Recounts the Attack on Pearl Harbor

Lynn "Doc" Munger was a 23-year-old pharmacist's mate during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. When Munger was 98 years old, he told his story of serving as a Navy medic and caring for those injured from the devastating attack. You can watch his full interview via the Library of Congress' Veterans History Project. https://www.loc ...

Video
Nov 8, 2023

MHS Honors U.S. Army Spc. 5th Class Clarence Eugene Sasser

MHS Honors U.S. Army Spc. 5th Class Clarence Eugene Sasser

This Veterans Day, the Military Health System remembers U.S. Army Spc. 5th Class Clarence Eugene Sasser who received a Medal of Honor for his courageous service during the Vietnam War. Learn more at health.mil/MedalofHonor You can watch the full interview via the Library of Congress' Veterans History Project: https://www.loc.gov/item/afc2001001 ...