The Missionary Doctor

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Right-wing opposition marred a Washington testimonial dinner for the Surgeon General last month: eleven original sponsors boycotted the Koop dinner, including G.O.P. presidential contenders Senator Robert Dole and Congressman Jack Kemp. With pickets marching outside the dinner and demanding his ouster, Koop took pains to thank those who risked the wrath of the right by attending. "There has never been a time in my life," he said, "when I wanted or appreciated such a show of friendship." Of his former allies, Koop complains, "They don't listen to what I've said, but they criticize me about what somebody told them they think I've said. I find that discouraging."

As surgeon in chief at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Koop won renown for his record in repairing birth defects, including dramatic work separating Siamese twins. Ever since he and his wife Elizabeth embraced evangelical Christianity in the 1940s, Koop has seen a clear connection between medicine and morality. It is a vision that animates his mission as Surgeon General. "I don't think you can ever separate your religious, ethical or moral values from the way you do your job," says Koop. "There are social opportunities and obligations that go with sharing one's religion, such as the compassionate care of the sick."

In the weeks ahead, Koop may have to weigh his own ethical imperatives against the political demands of Administration policy on AIDS. Koop does not promise silence, but suggests he will bow to the will of the President: "I'm a health officer, and I have to support the law of the land. That's my job." It is a job that will only become more arduous as America struggles to contain the AIDS epidemic.