To:  USPHS Commissioned Officers From:  Acting Surgeon General Subject:  President’s Nomination of 18th Surgeon General of the United States

It is my pleasure to inform you that on May 24, 2007, the President announced his intent to nominate Dr. James W. Holsinger, Jr., to serve as the 18th Surgeon General of the United States.

Dr. Holsinger is an accomplished physician who has led on of our Nation’s largest healthcare systems, the State of Kentucky’s healthcare system, and the University of Kentucky’s medical center. He proudly served this Nation for more than three decades in the United States Army Reserve, retiring at the rank of Major General. He currently serves as the Wethington Endowed Chair in the Health Sciences and Professor of Preventive Medicine in the College of Public Health at the University of Kentucky. Prior to this, he served as Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Earlier in his career, he served as Chief Medical Director of the Veterans Health Administration. Dr. Holsinger received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky, his master’s degrees from the University of South Carolina and Asbury Theological Seminary, and his PhD and MD from Duke University.

These are exciting times as the Transformation of the Corps progresses and the culture of our Corps evolves. This nomination too is a significant event for the Nation, the Department, and the Corps. As a new chapter in the life of our Corps unfolds, I thank each of you for your continued selfless service to protect, promote, and advance the health and safety of the Nation. It is a privilege to serve with each and every one of you.

Kenneth P. Moritsugu, M.D., M.P.H. RADM, USPHS

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