Pictured: Captain Mark Benedict, is responsible for maintaining a safe environment and directing the efforts of the security team. Photo courtesy of HCA Florida Englewood Hospital.

When visiting HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, one of the first smiling faces you'll likely see is Captain Mark Benedict, a security officer who served in the United States Marine Corps. On Veterans Day, a day of remembrance and reflection, the hospital will honor those healthcare colleagues who have served in the armed forces to preserve our freedom. Benedict was a Lance Corporal (LCpl), the highest rank a marine can hold without being a non-commissioned officer. He served as a police officer from 1982 to 1985 in Beirut, Lebanon, Wilmington, North Carolina and San Antonio, Texas. Military police work to uphold law and order and have duties like investigations, emergency response, base access and corrections. He follows in his uncle's footsteps, who was in the Air Force. However, he is proud to be his family's first and only marine. "I am proud that I served my country overseas. I made friends that I have for life. Once a marine, always a marine. It's a family that never goes away." said Benedict. As a security officer for Englewood Hospital, the safety of patients and staff is a top priority. In his role, Benedict is responsible for maintaining a safe environment and directing the security team's efforts. "With the people I supervise, I think of us as a team and a family. I'm proud because the Marine Corps instilled that in me." When asked why he chose to work in security for a healthcare organization, he said, "I like to help people. I like the hospital because I get to meet people, pray with them and be a calming influence. They want to know their family is safe, and they want to feel safe when they come here. It helps in the healing process. There is physical healing, emotional healing and spiritual healing. All of those are important, and I feel that I've been called to protect those things. And along the way, cause a smile once in a while." Englewood Hospital is part of HCA Healthcare, a nationally recognized military-friendly employer that has hired more than 40,000 veterans, active-duty personnel and military spouses since 2012. In 2021, the Military Times named HCA Healthcare one of the country's best employers for military-connected employment programs, benefits and support. The organization has earned national recognition as a military and military spouse-friendly employer for 11 consecutive years by VIQTORY. To learn more about the HCA Healthcare Military Affairs program, visit https://careers.hcahealthcare.com/pages/military-affairs.

Pictured: Captain Mark Benedict, is responsible for maintaining a safe environment and directing the efforts of the security team. Photo courtesy of HCA Florida Englewood Hospital.