Phoebe, in partnership with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, hosted its annual Veterans Day Program Tuesday morning.  It not only honored military veterans who work for Phoebe but all veterans in the community.

“Veterans add so much to our community and, certainly, to Phoebe.  We actively recruit veterans because of the discipline, teamwork and resolve they bring to the workplace, and we encourage veterans looking for jobs to explore career opportunities at Phoebe,” said Anthony Lewis, Phoebe Chief Human Resources Officer.

The many veterans employed by Phoebe include at least 10 physicians, including Franklin W. Goldwire, MD, a gastroenterologist and a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve who wrapped up a four-month deployment to Kuwait earlier this year.  His dual commitment to country and community exemplifies the spirit of service that defines both military and medical professions.

Dr. Goldwire grew up in a military family where service was a way of life. “It was ingrained in me at an early age. As a physician, I’m able to serve the people of southwest Georgia by providing exceptional healthcare. That’s my way of continuing the legacy of service that shaped me,” Dr. Goldwire said.

The lessons he learned in uniform extend seamlessly into the hospital halls. “The military taught me the importance of teamwork. Every member’s role is critical, and if they don’t execute, the mission will fail. In healthcare, everyone from environmental services to physicians plays a vital part in patient care. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to make sure every team member has the tools they need to succeed,” he said.

The military’s “adapt and overcome” philosophy has guided Dr. Goldwire through the unpredictable challenges of modern medicine.

“Daily we face situations where conditions aren’t ideal. But instead of letting that affect patient care, we find new techniques and alternatives to deliver the best care possible,” said Dr. Goldwire.

Beyond skills and discipline, his military experience has enriched his perspective on diversity and connection.

“In the military, you work with people from all corners of the globe. That experience has helped me relate to patients from every background,” said Dr. Goldwire.

The Army’s core values – respect, selfless service, and duty – deeply resonate with Dr. Goldwire and align perfectly with Phoebe’s mission of compassion, service, and commitment.

“That’s what led me to Phoebe. Our shared goal is to make what’s best for the patient and the community our focus,” said Dr. Goldwire.

Calm under pressure, Dr. Goldwire draws on his training in crisis to stay steady during emergencies in healthcare.

“The unpredictable situations in the military taught me to stay calm and focused on achieving the best outcome for the patient,” said Dr. Goldwire.

For him, caring for service members and veterans' carries special meaning.

“It’s a privilege to care for those who have served because I understand the sacrifices they and their families make. It’s my way of saying thank you,” said Dr. Goldwire.

Dr. Goldwire approaches medicine with the same dedication found in the Soldier’s Creed: ‘I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit.’ He applies that mindset daily in his practice, making improving his patients’ health the ultimate mission.

“Veterans Day reminds me to stop and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of the sacrifices of those who served. The same satisfaction you get from serving your country, you can also find in serving others through medicine,” said Dr. Goldwire.

Today’s Veterans Day Program reflected the heart of Phoebe and the community, honoring service through the inspiring voices of the Lake Park Elementary Show School Chorus, and the powerful remarks shared by retired United States Marine Corps Lt. Col Don Gray and Navy veteran Melissa Williams, a proud Phoebe RN, whose dedication reminds us that courage, compassion, and commitment to others extend far beyond the battlefield.