The Selective Service System (SSS) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Everett J. Bonner, a retired U.S. Army officer and distinguished surgeon, as the Louisiana State Director. Dr. Bonner was officially sworn in by Acting Director Craig T. Brown after being recommended for the position by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.
Dr. Everett Bonner exemplifies leadership, dedication, and excellence. From his service as a trauma surgeon in the U.S. Army to his remarkable career in oncology and surgery, Dr. Bonner has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service. We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber leading our efforts in Louisiana.
– Craig T. Brown, Acting Director
In his remarks, Dr. Bonner expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “It is a profound honor to continue serving our nation as the Louisiana State Director for the Selective Service System. My priority is to enhance Louisiana’s readiness posture and ensure we are fully supporting America’s all-volunteer military.”
A Distinguished Military and Medical Career
Dr. Bonner’s 24-year military career with the Louisiana Army National Guard is marked by his dedication and exceptional service. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Dr. Bonner served as a trauma surgeon in Iraq in 2008, providing critical medical care to soldiers in combat. Throughout his military tenure, he also served as a field medic and surgeon, demonstrating exemplary leadership in high-pressure environments. He retired from military service in 2017, leaving a legacy of commitment to both his state and country.
Family Legacy of Military Service
The Bonner family has served our nation, the State of Louisiana, and the Selective Service System for decades. Dr. Bonner’s grandfather, Brigadier General Thomas Bonner served as the Louisiana State Director from 1972-1975. BG Bonner served for 36 years and was the former Adjutant General of the Louisiana National Guard and Assistant TAG during several administrations. His father, retired Colonel Everett Bonner, served 33 years in the US Army Reserve and the Louisiana National Guard. Colonel Bonner was the Louisiana Selective Service Director from 2001 to 2021. Including Dr. Bonner’s years of service, the Bonner family service spans nearly a century.
A Leader in Medicine
Over the course of his civilian career, Dr. Bonner became a prominent figure in the medical community. He served as Chief of the Breast Cancer Oncology Division and Chairman of the Cancer Committee at Baton Rouge General Hospital, where he led efforts to provide innovative and compassionate care to cancer patients. Dr. Bonner’s extensive medical leadership also includes his roles as Chief Medical Officer at the Aesthetic Breast Restoration Center and the Advanced Surgical Care Center in Baton Rouge.
Dr. Bonner’s dual expertise in military service and medicine underscores his ability to lead and inspire, qualities that will serve him well in his new role with the Selective Service System.
Commitment to Community
Dr. Bonner resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his family. His lifelong dedication to public service and improving lives reflects his character and leadership. as Louisiana State Director, Dr. Bonner will work to ensure the state is prepared to support national security and readiness initiatives.
The Selective Service System is honored to welcome Dr. Bonner to his vital leadership role and looks forward to his contributions to the agency’s mission.
Source: Selective Service System of Louisiana