Maj. Gen. Granger Recognized as Distinguished Alumnus

Only one doctor could win the annual University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Distinguished Alumnus Award, and this year he hails from TRICARE: Maj. Gen. Elder Granger. The award presentation will take place Aug. 22, 2008, at the university.

The deputy director for TRICARE Management Activity (TMA) has a long history of setting high standards and leadership in the medical arena.

Granger began his academic career at Arkansas State University, in Jonesboro. Graduating in 1976 with a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology and a minor in military science, this was the starting point of a career dedicated to medicine and service to the United States.

Granger’s undergraduate alma mater also awarded him the honor of distinguished alumnus for 2008. That award was announced July 10.

In an effort to extend his services for Arkansas State University, Granger also participates in the Chancellor’s Cabinet and is a founding member of the Beck PRIDE Center for America’s Wounded Veterans National Advisory Council. Located within the College of Nursing and Health Professions, the center assists combat veterans with a centralized site for coordination of resources helping families achieve a successful post-war adjustment.

"Granger’s dedication throughout his academic career is the same dedication we can see throughout his military career," said Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for Health Affairs. "I am certain the University of Arkansas College for Medical Sciences decided to make him the distinguished alumnus because they can see he’s a great doctor and leader."

Casscells explained that Granger’s service to TRICARE has been paramount in creating a successful team of health care professionals, providing the best possible medical treatment to families and members of TRICARE and setting the example for TRICARE employees to follow.

"If we can all look at who Gen. Granger is and pick one of his strengths to emulate, we will all improve ourselves greatly," said Casscells.

"From starting his military career in internal medicine at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colo., to his achievements in Iraq, where dedicated service and saving lives earned him the Bronze Star, Maj. Gen. Granger has dedicated himself to saving lives and helping others," Casscells said.

"It is the greatest honor to know he received the Distinguished Alumni Award for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and is a valued part of the TRICARE family."

From Military Health System, Tuesday, July 22, 2008