Lt. Col. Jimmy M. Allen, BSN '65

Q: Why did you serve?

A: Initially, I had to join, or otherwise I would be drafted upon graduation. The Army knew there was going to be a shortage of nurses because of the Vietnam War. Male nurses were not allowed in any of the military nurse corps prior to this. During tour of duty in Japan, I decided I wanted to make a career of it.

 

Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?

A: Taking care of critically wounded soldiers and their families. The military provides the best nursing care in the country! I learned to triage patients and at one time, I personally triaged 350 wounded soldiers, continuously for 48 hours, as they were loaded off of helicopters, one helicopter after another. This was during the Vietnam War, January 1968 Tet Offensive. At times, I was the only registered nurse on duty over three to four wards, taking care of 150 patients with the help of enlisted corpsmen, licensed practical nurses and the patients themselves whom we taught to care for their own wounds and for each other. This all resulted in great care.

 

Q: What did the military teach you?

A: There is a whole big world out there! I traveled extensively and learned about other cultures, their love of family and country; they love their families just as we do. I also learned respect, duty, honor and country. I learned that war is misery and it does not end for soldiers when they leave the military. They take their physical and emotional scars with them.

 

Q: How did your education at the MSU College of Nursing impact your career?

A: MSU accepted me as a transfer student. This opened the door for me to be able to have a wonderful education and career in nursing. My degree was essential to me getting into the military. It wasn’t my plan to go this route, but circumstances evolved that allowed this. I have learned to always be prepared and ready for opportunities when they arise. My civilian career expanded after the military to include becoming a licensed professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist.

 

MSU was a key part of my career ladder!

Years served:

 

1963-1984 - U.S. Army