Dr. Thomas Velling was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy in 1986 after receiving a Health Professions Scholarship to the University of Southern California (USC). He attended Officer Indoctrination School in Newport, RI, and following graduation from USC in 1989 was commissioned a Lieutenant. Dr. Velling completed a one-year General Surgery internship at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, where he was named “Intern of the Year”. Dr. Velling qualified as a Submarine and Diving Medical Officer and was subsequently assigned to a submarine tender and deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm. During his service in the Persian Gulf, Dr. Velling earned qualification as a Surace Warfare Officer. He served in other capacities at Naval Medical Center San Diego until being discharged in 2001. Dr. Velling remained active for two more years in the U.S. Navy Reserves. He started his career with Hoag Hospital in November 2001. Dr. Velling was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Navy Battle “E” Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (Gold Star), and Expert Pistol and Rifle Shot Medal. The Hoag Classic is proud to honor Dr. Thomas Velling.