A heart for service: Dr. Junewai Reoma's journey from battlefield to bedside at Essentia Health

With Veteran's Day upon us, stories of sacrifice and resilience remind us of the profound impact of military service. For Dr. Junewai Reoma, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Essentia Health-St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth, this day is a quiet reflection on a decade spent in uniform, healing those who defend our nation. 

Born into an immigrant family, Dr. Reoma became a U.S. citizen and felt a deep gratitude for the opportunities America provided – a safe home, quality education, and the path to becoming a doctor.

"I wanted to give back to our country," he recalls. "It was a strong sense of patriotism that motivated me to join the armed forces after medical school."

Dr. Reoma's military career began with a commission in the U.S. Navy, where the service supported his surgical training. His first assignment as a general surgeon was at 29 Palms, the largest Marine base in California's desert heartland. This stark and demanding environment that tested his skills from the start.

Later, he deployed overseas with a small surgical team, operating in remote conditions amid the chaos of warzones. These roles honed his expertise under pressure, treating soldiers and local civilians with limited resources.

"It was difficult," Dr. Reoma said. “But it built my dedication to the mission."

A pivotal chapter unfolded at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the military's flagship hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. There, Dr. Reoma encountered a diverse patient population: active-duty personnel with complex injuries transferred from afar, and elderly retirees seeking care. The abundance of resources allowed for cutting-edge treatments, but the emotional toll was immense. He cared for wounded soldiers eager to return to duty, their resilience inspiring him daily. One story stands out – a double amputee veteran undergoing open-heart surgery.

"He had already endured so much," Dr. Reoma said. "Recovering without legs is extraordinarily challenging, yet his courage was profound."

These interactions reshaped his view of military health care, emphasizing not just medical intervention but holistic support for those who've sacrificed limbs, peace of mind and more.

At the Washington D.C. VA Hospital, Dr. Reoma treated patients grappling with PTSD, housing instability, and social isolation.

"Veterans often have complex needs differing from the general population," he explained. "There's sometimes a wariness of medical personnel, rooted in military experiences where health issues could disrupt duty."

These lessons carried into his civilian career. After 10 years of service, Dr. Reoma transitioned to Essentia, drawn by its alignment with military values.

"Essentia is a place where they share many values with the military," he said. "It's been a good fit for me."

The organization's motto echoes the teamwork he cherished at Walter Reed, where Army, Air Force, and Navy doctors unite. Camaraderie thrives at St. Mary's, mirroring the bonds of his military days.

"The team here has shown that same spirit," he said. "I feel privileged to work in such an environment."

Essentia exemplifies support for employees who serve or have served. With flexible policies that accommodate reservists and supporting veteran hiring, the system honors those who've worn the uniform. Dr. Reoma advises transitioning veterans to seek places like Essentia, where resources match their needs.

"The opportunity to serve our country and care for fellow service members was a true privilege,” he said. “I very much look forward to taking care of patients in the Northland."

On this Veteran's Day, Dr. Reoma's message is simple yet heartfelt: Every veteran's journey is personal, driven by unique reasons. Recognition is appreciated, but so is understanding the quiet sacrifices. In a health care system that values service, Dr. Reoma continues to heal, embodying the enduring spirit of those who give back.

Essentia Health is proud to earn the Military Friendly® employer designation for 2026. The Military Friendly® employer designation is awarded by VIQTORY, a veteran-owned small business, and is based on public data and survey responses. The designation also reflects the organization’s commitment to recruitment, retention and promotion of veterans and military colleagues.

We are honored to support and recognize our colleagues with military backgrounds this week on Veterans Day — and the rest of the year.