Walter Reed's death bed

News came yesterday that the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission has tapped Walter Reed Army Medical Center to close its storied doors. The famed hospital – a staple of Washington, DC – has played host to presidents, international dignitaries and countless residents of Georgia Avenue.

Today’s New York Times has an excellent retrospective and appreciation of the now-doomed medical facility. The article is somewhat unique insofar as it seems to properly reflect the tone of most concerned with the proposed closing: it is a sad moment and a hospital to be remembered, but not necessarily something to be fought. The National Naval Medical Center, just a few miles away in my hometown of Bethesda, Maryland, is a more modern, finer facility. Merging the Maryland site with Walter Reed will allow our military to continue to enjoy the finest in medical care, while also upping efficiency and saving a few dollars.

Still, Walter Reed is a marvel to be noted. As the Times article notes, it is where President Eisenhower passed away, Winston Churchill visited and General MacArthur relayed death bed advice. Much will doubtlessly be made of this when the facility’s doors do close, and rightfully so. A marking plaque would be in order as well. But after over 100 years on honorable service, Walter Reed’s 113 acre campus has evolved from a stand-out medical facility to prime real estate.

And so goes history.