(Washington, DC) — Today, esteemed DC Department of Health (DOH) Director, Dr. Joxel Garcia received the US. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS) Admiral Flag, one of the most prestigious public health honors, for his commitment, innovative thinking and uniquely effective approach to developing strategic public health plans, initiatives and programs, as well as his profound impact on global public health.
“I am honored to be recognized and celebrated by my peers, former colleagues, friends and other fellow public health officials. This award not only highlights my career, but also those who have helped me along the way, and who have worked closely with me to improve the lives, well-being and safety of many people world-wide through public health. Today is a day I will always remember and I am grateful for this award and what it means for me and the Hispanic community at large,” said DOH Director Dr. Joxel Garcia.
Dr. Garcia is the first recipient of the USPHS Admiral Flag. The reward is the official flag for the USPHS and was the actual flag displayed in Dr. Garcia’s office during his tenure at the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Additionally, Dr. Garcia is the first Hispanic to be appointed to Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS and is currently the highest ranking Hispanic official who has worked at HHS.
“We are proud to present Dr. Garcia with this award as it fully signifies his commitment to serving others through the promotion of global health diplomacy. With this award, Dr. Garcia’s legacy will live on, as well as his work to support the vision of employing public health officers across the globe to help those most in need. Dr. Garcia’s impact on the public health community has been profound and we look forward to continuing to watch him change the face of public health for the better,” Guillermo J. Avilés-Mendoza, Chair, USPHS Hispanic Officers Advisory Committee.
Dr. Garcia was presented with an official flag for his service at a special event that took place today at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Hubert H. Humphrey Building in SW, Washington, DC.