Duty, Honor, Country,
Profession
By Steve Hochfelder, DMD
This is the motto of the United States Military Academy at West Point, which is inscribed around the hallowed grounds of the premier leadership institution in the world. This motto is ingrained in all cadets during their 47-month experience at the academy. These famous words were uttered by the iconic Gen. Douglas MacArthur, a West Point graduate and superintendent. I respectfully substitute profession for country and use this phrase to inspire and define my commitment to dentistry. Allow me to explain: Duty: In military terms, it is defined as doing that which is asked of you regardless of whether you agree. It is done because you are committed to a higher cause. As dentists, we have a duty to serve our patients and profession to the best of our ability and with our best effort.
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