(This article originally appeared in the September 2026 issue of Military Officer magazine.)

Col. Paul Kwon serves as chief of the Defense Health Agency’s Medical Modernization and Simulation Division, helping shape how the Army prepares medical forces for today’s evolving operational environment. His work focuses on ensuring military medical teams are prepared for the realities of the battlefield before they ever step onto one.

Early Foundations

“I graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1993,” Kwon said. “Looking back, my career reflects the incredible opportunities the Army provides as a servant leader. I learned the fundamentals of leadership through listening first, then learning always. Later, I transitioned into the U.S. Army Reserve to pursue graduate education in environmental and civil engineering.”

A Calling to Serve

“At its core, service has always been about giving back and being part of something greater than myself. The Army offered a calling to lead, to serve, and to make a meaningful difference.

“Over time, that desire has deepened — not just to serve the mission but to serve soldiers and families and their children.”

Service With Purpose

“Some of the greatest highlights of my career have been serving alongside outstanding soldiers, civilians, and partners in challenging environments. From deployed operations and pandemic response to preventive medicine programs and medical research, each assignment reinforced why the work matters. Serving overseas, particularly in global health and public health security roles, reinforced how medicine can build trust, strengthen partnerships, and save lives well beyond the clinic walls. Those experiences stay with you and shape how you view service and sacrifice.”