From special forces to stethoscopes: The journey of Thomas Payne
Thomas Payne’s journey from the military to veterinary school is a powerful example of how service can evolve with purpose. A former Special Forces officer in the U.S. Army, Thomas is now pursuing his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University. He is on track to graduate in 2027 with plans to enter mixed animal practice, serving both small and large animals—particularly in rural and underserved communities. His transition reflects a deep commitment to continue helping others, this time through animal care and public health.
Advancing in veterinary medicine
At Texas A&M, Thomas is building a strong clinical foundation and gaining hands-on experience that will prepare him to meet the diverse needs of his future clients. He brings to veterinary medicine the same leadership, work ethic, and discipline that defined his military career.
“It’s not every day that somebody can go from being a Special Forces officer to a veterinarian,” he shares. But with focus and resilience, Thomas is doing just that—pursuing a new profession grounded in the same values of service and dedication.
Supporting family and education
Just two weeks before final exams, Thomas and his wife welcomed their first child. Balancing fatherhood with the demands of veterinary school presented new challenges—ones made more manageable thanks to the AVMA/AVMF Veterinary Scholarship for Veterans.
“This scholarship greatly alleviates the financial stressors of veterinary school,” he says. “It allows me to focus on the things that matter most—such as my family and achieving the best veterinary education possible to benefit my future clients.”
About the scholarship
The AVMA/AVMF Scholarship for Veterans supports U.S. military veterans who are pursuing education in veterinary medicine. This scholarship recognizes the unique strengths and perspectives that veterans bring to the profession—qualities like leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to service. It helps bridge the transition from military life to veterinary practice, empowering recipients like Thomas to succeed in a second career with lasting impact.
A message of gratitude
Thomas expresses heartfelt appreciation to the AVMF and its donors for their role in supporting veterans in veterinary medicine.
“I’m truly humbled to receive this scholarship,” he says. “It’s the support of people like you—and organizations like AVMF—that make these opportunities possible for veterans like me.”
Continuing a life of purpose
Thomas Payne’s story is a testament to what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity. His path from the battlefield to the barnyard continues a life defined by service—now centered on advancing animal health and supporting the communities that depend on it. With the support of the AVMF, Thomas and other veteran scholars are redefining what it means to serve—one patient, one client, one community at a time.
Interested in supporting future veterinarians like Thomas?