Joshua Strongbear Sweet

Medical Officer

Age: 42

Birthplace: Bigelowe, Kansas

Parents: Corporal Moses and Jerika Sweet

 

Expertise:

Ph.D. in Internal Medicine, Hoard University, 1895; Ph.D.in Botany, University of Maryland, 1896; Doctor of Herbology, London 1897; first colored professor to lecture at Harvard Medical School, 1897.  Joined military in 1898, toured with the United States Volunteer Infantry (Rough Riders) until 1901, acting as battlefield surgeon and Colonel Roosevelt’s personal physician for a period of three months during the Kettle and San Juan Hill Campaigns.  Was instrumental in treatment of soldiers from both sides of conflict in disease-ridden Cuban jungle after hostilities had ceased.  Received no formal commendation except for personal letter from Colonel Roosevelt.  Has extensive knowledge of Arapaho and Cheyenne healing techniques; mentored by his maternal uncle, Iorn Cloud.  Traveled to India and studied ayurvedic medicine at Amrita Institute, 1905.  Traveled to Ivory Coast and studied tropical medicine at Prins Leopold Institute, 1908.  Traveled to Tulsa Oklahoma, and studied large animal veterinary medicine at Baxter University, 1913.

 

Background:

Born in an army clinic in Fort Phil-Kearny, Joshua Sweet was raised by turns at Pine Ridge Reservation in the Dakota Territory and various Army outposts throughout Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.  While living on reservation territory, Dr. Sweet was tutored by his uncle, an Arapaho elder and medicine man, Iorn Cloud.  During this time, Dr. Sweet developed a talent and appreciation for unconventional forms of medicine.  When living and traveling with the 24th Infantry, he would assist the Medical Corps where his father was assigned as medic.  Dr. Sweet is well-traveled and well-versed in a wide variety of medical practices.  His background in botanical research and pharmaceuticals is particularly useful when on extended campaign.  Dr. Sweet was first recruited by then-Lieutenant Rourke after the battle of Santiago.