Some individuals are born Soldiers. As the grandson of two World War II veterans, Lt. Col. Travis Watson knew he wanted to join the Army at an early age.

He began his military career during college at the University of Oklahoma, in the Army ROTC program. After a discussion with this father, Watson decided that Pharmacy would make a solid career path.

Watson's military journey has spanned 21 years, after he earned his commission as Second Lieutenant in 1992.

Watson went on to serve in leadership roles in Pharmacy Departments up to the Office of The Surgeon General. One of his greatest accomplishments was leading the implementation of a new pharmacy benefit program, the Department of Defense formulary and an automated medication list for patients.

Col. Stephen Dalal, commander, U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity, addressed the audience at the retirement ceremony on July 8. Dalal acknowledged Watson's many accomplishments, and presented him with several awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal.

"Thank you for your years of serviceâ?¦ and impact to the Army Medicine Department," said Dalal.

Watson's final assignment was at the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity at Fort Detrick, Md., where he served as the director for the Force Health Protection Division.

"I am extremely honored to have had the opportunity to serve with Lt. Col. Watson at USAMMDA over the past year," said Lt. Col. Jennifer Kishimori, director of FHP. "Lt. Col. Watson's vision, creative problem-solving and strategic thinking really shaped how the Division functions today and challenged us at FHP to push ourselves to new levels."

"We will all miss his leadership, mentorship and sense of humor," said Kishimori. "He has left very tough shoes to fill, but the FHP team he created is amazing, and I hope we are able to continue to build on his valuable initiatives."

Watson ended his retirement ceremony with his own acknowledgements and thanks to his family and friends. He expressed his gratitude to FHP and USAMMDA.

"I have made lifelong friendships that I will take with me, and when I hang up this uniform those will not stop," said Watson.