Reunion 40 years later: Dentists visit old stomping grounds, see advancements in Navy dentistry

Photo By Lance Cpl. Glen Santy | A group of eight retired dentists and their spouses share a moment together at the Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point before departing Cherry Point, Thursday. The group visited the air station and witnessed how the air station had changed in the 40 years since they lived and served here. “Back when I was here, all the facilities were old and didn’t have air conditioning,” said David Cloyd, a retired Navy lieutenant, who was stationed here from 1975-1977.  

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, UNITED STATES

05.17.2012

Story by Cpl. Glen Santy 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Almost 40 years after first stepping aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, eight former Navy dentists stationed here during the 1970s returned, May 17, for a firsthand look at developments in Navy dentistry.

Navy Cmdr. Thomas Jordan, clinic director with the health clinic’s 12th Dental Company, briefed the group members by highlighting major advances in Navy dentistry likely unimaginable in their days on active duty.

Many of the guests maintain private practices and work regularly with up-and-coming dentists. Jordan said he hopes information garnered by the former sailors will compel them to influence more dentists toward Naval Service.

Despite the fresh perspective on modern equipment and techniques, many of the guests could not help but remember the way things were. As the group made its way around a Station wrought with construction and modern facilities, one member stated only the flightline was recognizable.

“Back when I was here all the facilities were old and didn’t have air conditioning,” said David Cloyd, a retired Navy lieutenant, who was stationed here from 1975-1977. “Our patients would actually pass-out because of the heat, especially in the summer months like July and August.

Former Naval Hospital volunteer nurse Connie Robinson said she enjoyed the visit and remembers a time when supplies were not available as they are today. “Back when I was here, a lot of the dentist had to provide their own supplies. There was a lot of money spent out of pocket,” she said.

• Date Taken: 05.17.2012
• Date Posted: 05.22.2012 17:00
• Story ID: 88825
• Location: MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, US