Dr. Richard Pinsker, Internal Medicine Residency Program Director and the Associate Chairman for Medical Education in the Department of Medicine, was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as the Veteran of the Day in the Army National Guard.
Following the events of 9/11, Dr. Pinsker decided he wanted to do his part to support the national efforts to defend our country. In March of 2005 he was sworn in as a Lieutenant Colonel in the New York Army Reserve National Guard. He was deployed in 2007 and again in 2010 to Iraq, each time for four months in duration. Dr. Pinsker describes each tour as a very surreal and rewarding experience. He was particularly impressed by the high caliber of men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, keeping in mind that everyone who serves is a motivated volunteer. His role on both tours of duty was Senior Physician Provider charged with overseeing the care of the soldiers, local nationals, and civilian contractors on forward operating bases.
Dr. Pinsker received numerous awards for his service to our country. These include:
The Army Commendation Medal given to him twice for tours in Iraq
The Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
Army Service Ribbon
Dr. Pinsker was promoted to the rank of Colonel in 2012 and retired from the National Guard in February of 2014. We are very proud of Dr. Pinsker and thank him for his service to our country.