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.

Honor: In military jargon, is an honor to serve your country. It is an honor to help others in need and be part of a revered profession.

Profession: Our noble and esteemed profession is one of service to our patients, staff and communities. It is a privilege to be part of.

The often-asked question to many leaders in organized dentistry is “What have the American Dental Association and Florida Dental Association (FDA) done for me?” I hear it all too often and as many have heard, I happily reply, “Just volunteer and get engaged in any leadership position or committee with your local dental society/community or the FDA. Join any of the many committees, attend Dentists’ Day on the Hill or become a legislative contact dentist. It will quickly become apparent and clear what organized dentistry does for YOU and ALL dentists.” Quite simply, organized dentistry advocates on our behalf, looks out for our best interests and works tirelessly behind the scenes to protect our profession against many outside influences. Get involved for a year and then come back and we can discuss that question. However, there won’t be a discussion. You will never ask it again, I assure you. It becomes imminently clear. Initially upon graduation from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 1986, I was quite involved in organized dentistry for the first seven to 10 years, but then life got in the way. Five kids and a reset were in order. I still attended meetings and stayed engaged, but my priorities had to be realigned. Now with my youngest son off to college, I am back at what I was many years ago: A fully committed and reengaged dentist welcoming leadership opportunities and growing in knowledge to better serve and represent my fellow dentists. I am surrounded with many great fellow dentists and leaders whom I both learn from and admire.

I challenge and encourage all of you to do the same, especially the younger dentists and recent graduates. You will build lifelong friendships and enjoy good times and grow as a person and leader. A fulfilling career is one that is committed to excellence, and the FDA is defined by excellence. The staff and support for members are second to none, and they advocate for us with a passion and professionalism that is inspiring.

Dr. Hochfelder is a member of the FDA House of Delegates and the Governmental Action Committee.

Quite simply, organized dentistry advocates on our behalf, looks out for our best interests and works tirelessly behind the scenes to protect our profession against many outside influences.