Lt. (Dr.) Katherine Farris, USN, felt a “deep calling to serve.”

She joined the military because of a proud family tradition of service — her father served as an Army doctor and flight surgeon, her brother is in the Air Force, and her cousin is in the Army — and a desire to use her skills as a physician to care for and heal military members.

“I also was drawn to the unique opportunities the military could offer me, from flying in the backseat of the F/A-18 Hornet to deploying overseas,” said Farris, a flight surgeon for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 224 at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.

Her path to the military began in 2018 when she received an award through the four-year Health Professions Scholarship Program, which provides medical students full tuition coverage in exchange for military service as a physician. After graduating medical school in 2022, she started active duty as a Navy lieutenant and began her intern year at Naval Medical Center San Diego. She then moved to Pensacola, Fla., where she completed six months of specialized training to become a Navy flight surgeon.

[RELATED: More MOAA Members in the Spotlight]

Highlights of her career thus far have been flying in the backseat of the F/A-18 around the world, through which she said she has gained a unique perspective of military aviation, and the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Japan, South Korea, and Guam.

“But one of the most meaningful aspects of my service has been serving as the sole medical provider for 250 Marines, a responsibility that reinforced my commitment to their health and readiness,” she said.

These experiences have led to lessons-learned. The most valuable for Farris: the importance of adaptability and staying calm, focused, and effective no matter the environment or challenge.

“I’ve also gained an appreciation for teamwork and leadership, especially when missions depend on trust and clear communication,” she said.

She has recognized how military service allows her to be part of something greater than herself and make a real difference.

“Military service is a path that demands a lot but gives back even more in terms of pride, perspective, and impact,” Farris said. “For doctors, military service offers a rare and deeply rewarding opportunity to practice medicine in dynamic environments while caring for those who serve our country.”