Patricia Horoho

Lt. Gen. Patricia D. Horoho (4) (cropped)

Patricia Horoho is a retired lieutenant general in the United States Army and was the 43rd Surgeon General of the United States Army and Commanding General of the United States Army Medical Command. Born on September 18, 1960, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Horoho has had a distinguished career in military medicine, making history as the first woman and the first nurse to hold the position of Surgeon General of the Army.

Early Life and Education

Patricia Horoho grew up in a military family, which instilled in her a deep sense of duty and service from an early age. She pursued her education in nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and later a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pittsburgh. Her academic and professional journey laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking career in military healthcare.

Military Career

Horoho's military career is marked by numerous firsts and significant achievements. She was commissioned into the Army Nurse Corps in 1983, beginning a journey that would see her take on various roles within military healthcare. Her leadership and expertise were evident early on, leading to her serving in key positions, including as the Deputy Surgeon General of the Army and the 23rd Chief of the Army Nurse Corps before her historic appointment as the Surgeon General.

One of Horoho's most notable contributions came in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks in 2001, where she was recognized for her leadership and efforts in providing care to the Pentagon's wounded. Her actions during this critical time earned her the Legion of Merit among other military honors.

Surgeon General of the United States Army

On December 7, 2011, Patricia Horoho was sworn in as the 43rd Surgeon General of the United States Army, breaking new ground as the first woman and the first nurse to ever hold this prestigious position. During her tenure, she focused on transforming military healthcare, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness for soldiers and their families. Her initiatives aimed at improving the quality of care, patient safety, and the integration of technology in healthcare delivery within the Army Medical Command.

Retirement and Legacy

After a distinguished career, Patricia Horoho retired from the Army in 2016. Her legacy is characterized by her trailblazing role as a female leader in the military and her contributions to military medicine. She has been a vocal advocate for mental health, the well-being of soldiers and their families, and the advancement of nursing and healthcare within the military.

Following her retirement, Horoho has continued to influence the field of healthcare through her work in the private sector and her involvement in various healthcare organizations.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Patricia Horoho has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her service and contributions to military medicine. These include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal, among others.

See Also

• United States Army Medical Command
• Surgeon General of the United States Army
• Army Nurse Corps