U.S. Army Europe’s 2019 Physician Assistant of the Year

Capt. Jay O’Hara assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade is the recipient of U.S. Army Europe’s 2019 Physician Assistant of the Year Award. This title has been awarded to the best U.S. Army Europe physician assistant (PA) since 1982 and has helped PAs distinguish themselves amongst their peers. PAs are the unit "Doctors" that keep troops healthy and medically ready. There are over 70 PAs serving in Europe today from the U.S. Army Europe Head Quarters, Brigades and Battalions. The selection process to select the U.S. Army Europe PA is extremely competitive. Commanders recommend their best PA to U.S. Army Europe Office of the Command Surgeon for consideration highlighting their accomplishments achieved during the year. Candidate's packets are reviewed and scored by five Field Grade panel members and Sgt.'s Maj. from within the command reflecting the nominees' leadership attributes, level of responsibility, influence within and outside of the command, physical fitness and clinical achievements. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Henry Villarama)