A Shared Bond: A Veteran Cardiologist and His U.S. Navy Colleague and Patient

Published: Nov. 11, 2024

In the heart of Baton Rouge, a unique bond unites a renowned cardiologist and a former United States Navy colleague turned patient. Boyd E. Helm, M.D., a skilled interventional cardiologist at Baton Rouge Cardiology Center, and Diana Williams, Ph.D., a former U.S. Navy Hospital Corps WAVES member, share a special connection forged during their time in the U.S. Navy.

Dr. Helm, a proud Navy veteran, served as a Lieutenant Commander. His dedication to our country is evident in his unwavering commitment to patient care. During his service, he ran both the internal medicine and cardiology clinics at the U.S. Navy Hospital in Millington, Tennessee.

Dr. Williams, a U.S. Navy Hospital Corps WAVES member, joined the Navy and volunteered to serve in the Hospital Corps alongside Dr. Helm at the U.S. Navy Hospital. United States Naval Reserve (Women’s Reserve), better known as the WAVES (for Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), was the women’s branch of the United States Naval Reserve during World War II. It was established in 1942, by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This division of the U.S. Navy was created to free up male personnel for sea duty during World War II. Outside of nurses, Corps WAVES were the largest group of women to represent Navy Medicine during the war. While initially intended as a temporary measure, the integration of women into the Navy would have a lasting impact.

As a Navy Hospital Corps WAVES Medical Assistant, Dr. Williams was responsible for a variety of tasks, including office management, EKGs, and nursing duties. Dr. Williams described her days at the U.S. Navy Hospital as often long and demanding, balancing her regular duties during the day with added night shifts as an emergency room ambulance duty worker.

Dr. Helm and Dr. Williams often reminisce about their time in the Navy, sharing stories of long hours, camaraderie, and the satisfaction of serving their country. Dr. Helm recalls, “I remember Diana’s dedication and positive attitude, even during the most challenging times. She was a true inspiration to us all.”

After their military service, both Dr. Helm and Dr. Williams pursued successful careers in healthcare. Following his military service from 1971 to 1973, Dr. Helm completed his residency and fellowship in cardiology at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis. Dr. Williams earned a Ph.D. in microbiology and biochemistry from Louisiana State University (LSU). Then dedicated 30 years of her professional life as a molecular biologist specifically to the study of tuberculosis and leprosy at the National Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) Programs Research Laboratory at LSU. She was also an associate professor, Adj, in the Department of Pathobiological Sciences at LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.

Today, their paths have intertwined once more. Dr. Williams is now a patient of Dr. Helm’s, a testament to the enduring impact of their shared military experience. Dr. Helm shares, “It’s a privilege to care for a fellow veteran like Diana. Our shared Navy experiences have fostered a deep bond of trust and understanding. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve her and all of our nation’s heroes.”

“Dr. Helm’s dedication to his patients is truly inspiring. His expertise and compassionate care have made a significant difference in my health journey. It’s comforting to know that I’m in the hands of a fellow veteran who understands the unique challenges we face,” Dr. Williams said.

On this Veterans Day, we honor Dr. Helm, Dr. Williams, and all veterans for their sacrifices and service to our country. Their stories remind us of the courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication that define the spirit of a veteran.

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