Warrenton, Va. Dr. Jonathan Letterman, Medical Director Of The Army Of The Potomac And Staff (U.S. Civil War) Black Coffee Mug

"Dr. Jonathan Letterman, Medical Director of the Army of the Potomac and Staff (U.S. Civil War)" Dr. Jonathan Letterman was a prominent American medical officer who served during the U.S. Civil War. He held the positions of Medical Director of the Army of the Potomac and Staff, playing a significant role in improving military medicine and hospital organization within the Union Army. Born in 1824, Letterman graduated from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia in 1847. His career took a decisive turn when he was appointed as the Surgeon of the Army of the Potomac in 1861. During his tenure, Dr. Letterman implemented several innovations in military medicine and hospital administration. One of his most notable contributions was the establishment of an ambulance corps to transport wounded soldiers efficiently from the battlefield to field hospitals. He also introduced the concept of division-level hospitals to provide immediate medical care closer to the front lines. Dr. Letterman's work significantly impacted the survival rates of Union soldiers during the Civil War, earning him recognition as a pioneer in military medicine. After the war, he continued his medical practice and was involved in various professional organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Jonathan Letterman passed away in 1875 at the age of 50. His legacy continues to be celebrated for his contributions to military medicine during the U.S. Civil War.