SG Message: Deputy Surgeon General Transition
Shipmates:
Spring and summertime bring lots of change and transition to our military. Thousands of Sailors PSC around the world with their families. New leaders join organizations and others transition to new opportunities; that consistent flow of change keeps us strong.
Navy Medicine Deputy Surgeon General, Rear Admiral Shaffer will be retiring on 8 July after an illustrious 33 year career. These past few years, I have had the honor to witness first-hand Rear Adm. Shaffer’s servant leadership and her commitment to our One Navy Medicine Team. She is an incredible problem solver, a team builder, and a terrific partner. Through the many challenges of COVID-19 – from the vaccination effort to the greater DSCA response – she was always fully engaged in keeping us healthy and helping us succeed in our mission. And whenever I have needed counsel, she was always there to provide sage advice and keep us on track.
Succeeding Rear Adm. Shaffer is a tall order. It was recently announced that Rear Admiral Darin Via, Commander, Naval Medical Forces Atlantic, was selected to serve as the new Deputy Surgeon General, and he is more than up to this task. Like RADM Shaffer, Rear Admiral Via brings a wealth of operational and leadership experience. He has played pivotal roles on the frontlines in Iraq and Afghanistan, and it should also be noted that he will be the first former Hospital Corpsman to serve as DSG.
Please join me in congratulating RADM Shaffer on a career well-served and a warm welcome to RDML Via.
With my continued respect and admiration,
SG Sends
Joel Schofer's Career Planning Blog 