U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Daniel Perugini, D.O., has received the highest honor given by UNT Health Science Center — the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine's Founders' Medal.

Gen. Perugini serves as the commanding general of Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and of the Great Plains Regional Medical Command, which cares for military families in seven states.

"Gen. Perugini is a role model for osteopathic physicians and other health professionals at all stages of their medical careers," said Ronald Blanck, D.O., president of UNT Health Science Center. "Through his service to his country and to the osteopathic medical profession, he exemplifies the qualities of a true leader."

During his 30-year Army career, Gen. Perugini has held numerous leadership positions, including director of resident training and assistant chief in the department of family practice at DeWitt Army Community Hospital and chief of the family practice department at Eisenhower Army Medical Center.

He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice and the American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He received his medical degree from the University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1973.

Gen. Perugini has received numerous military awards and decorations, among them the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Physician Recognition Award of The U.S. Surgeon General.

The health science center presented the award to Gen. Perugini during its commencement ceremony May 17.

The Founders' Medal, awarded in honor of the health science center’s medical school founders — George Luibel, D.O., Carl E. Everett, D.O. and the late D.D. Beyer, D.O. — has been presented since 1978. The honor is awarded to "deserving individuals in recognition of significant contributions to healthcare and/or osteopathic medical education."

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