Military commissioning for a medical school refers to the process by which a medical student becomes an officer in the U.S. military after graduating from medical school. It’s often part of a program where the military helps pay for the student’s medical education in exchange for a commitment to serve as a military physician after graduation.

Graduates commissioning are held to military standards and are expected to serve as a leader in addition to being a doctor. Military doctors play a crucial and unique role in both the health care system and the defense mission of their country. Military doctors are responsible for the health, readiness and fitness of service members. They provide care for everything from minor injuries to complex trauma and mental health issues. Without healthy troops, missions can’t be carried out effectively. Unlike civilian doctors, military physicians may work in: combat zones, field hospitals, Navy ships, remote or underdeveloped areas. They need to be adaptable, resourceful and capable of providing top-tier care under pressure.

As officers, military physicians are leaders in both the medical and military community. They’re expected to uphold discipline, ethics and professionalism while also mentoring junior personnel. Military doctors don’t just treat patients–they ensure mission success, advance medical science and represent the nation’s humanitarian values. Their work has a lasting impact both on the battlefield and back home.

On behalf of the faculty, staff and entire community at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, we extend our deepest congratulations and gratitude as you take the honorable step of commissioning as officers in the United States Armed Forces. Your commitment to serve not only as physicians but also as military leaders reflects the highest ideals of service, sacrifice and integrity. You are answering a noble calling–one that demands both exceptional medical expertise and unwavering dedication to country and comrades.

As you embark on this dual role of healer and officer, know that your training here has prepared you not only to save lives but to lead with compassion, courage and resilience. The impact you will have–whether on the battlefield, in military hospitals, or during humanitarian missions–will be profound and far-reaching. We are proud of your achievement and even prouder of your choice to serve. You carry with you our full support, our respect and our enduring pride.