MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- On Thursday, May 7, 2020, in Washington, D.C., one of MacDill Air Force Base’s own will be honored as the Air Force recipient of the Heroes of Military Medicine Award.
Maj. Thomas Beachkofsky, the 6th Healthcare Operations Squadron dermatologist, is receiving the award for his contributions and research towards the advancement of patient care in diagnosing skin conditions.
The award is presented by the Center for Public-Private Partnerships at the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., and honors outstanding contributions by individuals who have distinguished themselves through excellence and selfless dedication to advancing military medicine and enhancing the lives and health of service members.
“As a trusted military partner in medical research, it is HJF’s privilege each year to honor outstanding service members nominated by their respective service at the Heroes of Military Medicine dinner,” said HJF President and CEO retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho, M.D. “This is the 10th year HJF is presenting the dinner to honor the heroes of military medicine.”
Within the 6th Medical Group’s dermatology clinic, Beachkofsky has been lauded for his use of a scanner which produces high-resolution images to log and track marks on lesions on his patients to aid in identifying skin conditions.
“It’s a huge honor and it’s a humbling accolade that more so speaks to the support I’ve had throughout my career,” admitted Beachkofsky. “I’ve been blessed with having good leadership that has always encouraged myself and others to be thoughtful and innovative.
Beachkofsky’s commitment to patient care extends far passed his clinic at the 6th MDG; attributing research groups he has long been involved with, dating back to his residency at Joint Base Lackland-San Antonio, Texas.
“I’m truly indebted with my family,” said Beachkofsky. “My wife understands my passion for medicine, without her support and my kids, I couldn’t do this at all.”
Beachkofsky will be one of five nominees celebrated at the awards dinner in an event that highlights these healthcare professionals across the Department of Defense in their efforts to provide exceptional care to service members.
“Maj. Beachkofsky is this year’s Air Force awardee, one whose incredible accomplishments clearly highlight a distinguished medical career of service to our Nation’s warfighters,” said Caravalho. “HJF is pleased to be able to present the Air Force Hero of Military Medicine Award to Maj. Thomas Beachkofsky at this year’s awards dinner.”