J Emerg Med
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Biography Historical Article
Revisiting Desmond Doss (1919-2006): Merging Combat Medicine and Benevolence on the Battlefield.
Conscientious objectors are typically defined only by their unwillingness to serve in the armed forces. Desmond Doss participated in World War II as a combat medic and a conscientious objector by providing emergency medicine on active battlefields while refusing to handle a weapon or harm another human being. Born and raised with humility, Doss developed spiritually as a Seventh Day Adventist. ⋯ Doss was granted his request as a combat medic, was not required to handle a weapon or fight, and was deployed with the 307th Infantry Regiment overseas. His heroism on the battlefield saved hundreds of lives and earned him the Medal of Honor. A thorough yet concise examination of Doss' formative years, the obstacles presented by the country he aimed to serve, how he evolved from a conscientious objector to a combat medic worthy of emulation, and his lasting legacy is a necessary reminder of what we risk when courageous people are limited by outdated and potentially unconstitutional policies and perceptions.
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Lung ultrasound can accelerate the diagnosis of life-threatening diseases in adults with respiratory symptoms. ⋯ Lung ultrasound is an accurate tool for the emergency diagnosis of pneumonia, acute heart failure, and exacerbations of COPD/asthma.