Gerard Fritz

Dr. Gerard Fritz served as a physician in the US Navy from 1989 to 1995, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He is a recipient of the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

Dr. Fritz grew up in Lawrenceville, New Jersey and attended medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. While in medical school, he was granted the Navy Health Profession Scholarship, which entitled him to a living stipend and money for tuition in return for military service.

After graduating from medical school, Dr. Fritz was sent to the US Naval Hospital in Oakland, California, where he worked as a pediatric intern. Upon completing residency, he was assigned to the USNS Mercy, which was a hospital ship based on the West Coast. Despite specializing in pediatrics, Dr. Fritz explained that, in the military, he was “first and foremost a physician.” Thus, his work often extended beyond pediatrics.

While in the military, Dr. Fritz treated patients stateside and abroad, including the Dominican Republic, Iceland, Italy, and Puerto Rico. He served during the Persian Gulf War, and recalled how there were fears of Iraqi forces deploying weapons of mass destruction, specifically biological and chemical nerve agents, against coalition forces.

Following his discharge, Dr. Fritz moved back to New Jersey to work in pediatrics. His message to the younger generation is to respect the military and consider serving. He emphasized, “It’s worthwhile…you gain lifelong friends from your service, and I don’t think anyone would regret it.”

Additional Resource:

• Somerset Pediatric Group