• Alum’s lifetime of medical service includes helping save David Petraeus’ life

    Dr. Keith SanfordFour-star General David Petraeus became widely known for leading American forces in Iraq and later Afghanistan over the past decade, and he now serves as director of the CIA. But he might never have been able to serve his country in such ways were it not for the work of a Baylor Bear.

    Dr. Keith Sanford, BS ’85, was an Army surgeon in 1991 when Petraeus was shot in the chest during a military training exercise at Fort Campbell, Ky. Petraeus was rushed into surgery, where Sanford was part of the medical care that saved the future general’s life.

    Today, you can find Sanford in San Antonio, where he enjoys a thriving practice and has been named one of the city’s best doctors more than once. He is a glaucoma specialist and has authored articles in numerous scientific publications.

    After graduating from Baylor in 1985, Sanford returned to his home state for medical school, graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 1990. While there, he participated in the military Health Professions Scholarship Program and, after completing military training, served as a brigade flight surgeon with the elite 101st Airborne Division. He served as active mission medical support for two years, later transferring to Walter Reed Army Medical Center (where he completed an ophthalmology residency) and William Beaumont Army Medical Center before leaving active duty in 1999.

    Since moving to San Antonio, Sanford has earned the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserves and holds the positions of Flight Commander of the Medical Group Professional Services Flight and Chief of Clinical Services in the aerospace medicine squadron of the 433rd Alamo Wing.

    Sic ’em, Dr. Sanford!

    [We learned of this story from a Bear who shared her Baylor pride. Do you know of an inspiring story, news item, or just a fun link that makes you proud of Baylor and the Baylor family? Let us know! Click here to submit your point of pride!]