Contributions of Wartime Surgery to the Development of Vascular Surgery
Military Surgical Heritage
General Carl W. Hughes joined the Army Medical Corps in 1944 and later served as a vascular surgeon during the Korean War where he played a major role as a pioneer in the repair of acute vascular injuries. In 1966, he became chief of surgery at Walter Reed, where he was part of the surgical team that operated on Eisenhower.
Colonel Michael E. DeBakey served in the U.S. Army Surgical Consultants Division in World War II. Based in Washington, D.C., he played significant roles in assigning personnel, distributing equipment and supplies, engaging in public relations and liaison work, reviewing manuscripts and literature, coordinating education and training, and providing consultation. He remained in the Army for one year after the war during which time he coordinated continued care for the wounded, assisting in the early development of the postwar Veteran’s Administration.
Dr. Norman Rich was one of the first Army surgeons sent into Vietnam War. His experience as a combat surgeon inspired him to develop the Vietnam Vascular Registry while at Walter Reed Medical Center in 1967.
WarDocs
