Answering the Call of Duty: Readers Share Their Military Memories

The U.S. military has played a long history in training and shaping the lives of many in our industry. Here, four technicians share memories and lessons learned during their time in the service and the impact it had on their careers.

  • Dan Elfring, Master CDT: U.S. Air Force

    After 28 years, eight assignments and countless supervisors and positions in the Air Force, I genuinely feel my dental technology training prepared me for a successful and rewarding career. Every base proved to be fulfilling in one way or another but a few assignments really stand out:

    One of my earliest...

    Dan Elfring Image
    Dan Elfring

    Nov 17, 2023 at 4:10pm

    Read More 1 minute read

  • Gary Blevins: U.S. Navy

    As a young Navy sailor, I got my start as a dental assistant which, back in 1984, was a prerequisite to attend the Navy’s dental laboratory program in San Diego. This experience was quite valuable in preparing me for a career in our industry. For instance, witnessing the doctor deliver a restoration...

    Gary Blevins Image
    Gary Blevins

    Nov 17, 2023 at 4:08pm

    Read More 1 minute read

  • Jack Marrano, CDT: U.S. Marine Corps.

    When people ask me if I learned dental technology in the Marine Corps, I always laugh and respond, no, but I learned other specialized skills. That’s because the Marine Corps is strictly a fighting force and doesn’t offer any healthcare-related training. However, the skills I learned have...

    Jack Marrano Image
    Jack Marrano

    Nov 17, 2023 at 4:04pm

    Read More 1 minute read

    • Astika Touchstone
    • Viviana Alarcon
    • Nina Rapuano
    3 people recommend this
  • Michael DiPaulo, CDT: U.S. Navy

    My military training provided a strong foundation on which I built a successful career in this industry. I enlisted in the Navy in 1971, after completing a two-year program in dental laboratory technology at a trade school. I eventually received orders to attend U.S. Navy dental technician class “A”...

    Michael DiPaulo Image
    Michael DiPaulo

    Nov 17, 2023 at 4:00pm

    Read More 1 minute read

  • Ward Dental Lab Offers Care to Veterans in Need

    In support of our nation’s veterans, Ward Dental Laboratory, Brighton, MI, has been partnering with Victors for Veterans (V4V) since its inception in 2012. V4V, part of the University of Michigan Dental School’s community-based collaborative care program, offers free or low-cost dental care...

    LMT Communications, Inc. Image
    LMT Communications, Inc.

    Nov 13, 2023 at 6:07pm

    Read More 1 minute read

Show More