MR. RANDY THOMPSON, HUSBAND OF LTC JACQUELINE THOMPSON, M.D., OB/GYN: SACRIFICING FOR SERVICE.

For Randy Thompson, giving back to the country doesn’t always require joining the military. Sometimes sacrificing time spent with the ones you love is just as valuable.

Dr. Jacqueline Thompson, wife of Randy Thompson, currently serves in the Army Reserve Medical Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel. She first decided to join the Army in 1985 when she was a medical student to take advantage of the Health Profession Scholarship program the Army was offering. In 1999, she resigned her Army commission to go into a private gynecology practice. But the lure of returning to boost her retirement benefits, combined with the patriotic call brought on by September 11, convinced her that joining the Army Reserve was a chance to serve her country while still continuing her career in private practice.

When Dr. Thompson first decided to rejoin, Randy couldn’t truly express his initial reaction. “After the shock (of 9/11) was over, she realized what she needed to do and I supported her decision,” said Randy. “I had a clear understanding of what it meant.” Although he knew her decision to serve again would affect the amount of time they could spend together in the future, he felt that it was for the greater good of the nation so he was willing to make the sacrifice.

Throughout her commitment to the Reserve, Dr. Thompson has served our country through various missions. She has been mobilized twice in the States (Ft. Hood and Ft. Knox) and has been on a humanitarian mission in Guatemala. During her humanitarian mission, Dr. Thompson had a chance to break the monotony of her everyday work. “She likes the adventure,” said Randy. “It gives her a chance to help those in need, which is something she loves to do.” During her service at Ft. Hood, Dr. Thompson spent 90 days apart from her family serving as a resident. This is the longest she has been apart from her family since her commitment to the Reserve. “When she comes back, she is very tired emotionally,” said Randy. “But when the time rolls around again she is smiling and ready to go.”

During these missions, Randy has not had the chance to travel with his wife. This is mainly because of their two girls, Rachel (14) and Robin (12). According to Randy, the biggest challenge they’ve faced since his wife rejoined is that their children get to see less of their mom. “Taking care of two girls alone can be a real challenge when it comes to female issues,” said Randy. “There are some things they want to talk over with their Mom.” However, Randy explains that their children have grown up with it so they are used to it. “The girls always have a positive attitude about their mother’s service and are always interested in where she is going,” said Randy. “They are very proud of her!”

When Dr. Thompson is away, the family is able to maintain frequent communication with one another by use of computer cameras. “Sometimes, we talk more while she’s away than when she’s here,” said Randy. “The computer camera also gives her a chance to speak with the girls and keep the matriarchy in order.”

When asked what Mr. Thompson would say to another family member of a physician who wants to join he said, “I would encourage them to allow their spouse to do what they want and need to do and try not to stand in their way.” He explained that there are a couple of things to take into consideration when their family member decides to join. “Make sure you understand that there are a lot of benefits to take advantage of as a family member,” he said. “But you should also have a clear understanding of the demands on the family. Army life is different and takes some adjusting to.” In the end, Randy feels that his wife’s service to the country is an honorable endeavor that carries incredible importance. He notes, however, that sometimes the support of one’s family is just as crucial. “I’m helping the country as well by my sacrifice,” said Randy. “It has to be done.”

Back to All Family Spotlight Articles