Richard Obedian MD always knew he wanted to serve in the armed forces, ever since he was a young boy. After attending the University of Michigan, his parents thought he had given up on this dream and that he was heading straight for medical school. They were relieved since they wanted their son to stay on track with his dream of becoming a surgeon. However, the young man shocked everyone by enlisting in the U.S. Navy and working his way up the ranks. Richard Obedian MD assured family and friends that he was still going to Columbia and he would have his own practice one day.

“Everyone started doubting me and thought I would get caught up in a different career track and a different way of life. The military was just something I had to do before I settled into my life. It enhanced who I am and taught me discipline in both work and academia,” states Richard Obedian MD. True to his word, Richard Obedian MD was accepted into Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, while still an active member of the U.S. Navy.

On his graduation day, Richard Obedian MD proudly accepted his Admiral David Willard Lyon Award. This award is given to students who have outstanding academic achievement while serving in the United States Armed Services. “I worked hard in both my studies and my service while in the U.S. Navy. I was proud to be recognized for my hard work, as it was the most I had ever dedicated myself to anything in my life so far,” states Richard Obedian MD.

Richard Obedian MD was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy as a rank lieutenant. He always looks back on his years of service with fond memories. “I had the best of both worlds. I got to go away to college and have all those great experiences. I then joined the military and had the opportunity to travel and learn many other skills. Not to mention the financial incentives while I was enlisted and after I completed my four years,” recalls Richard Obedian MD.