<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
</head>
<body>
<p><em>Eric Howard Franks </em>was born on March 3, 1956 in Camp Kure, Japan to Lawrence and Roberta Franks. He was born into an Army family with a great tradition of service to country. His father was an Army officer; his grandfather, Colonel Robert Howard Jr., was a 1928 USMA graduate; and his great-grandfather, Brigadier General Dwight E. Aultman, was an 1894 USMA graduate. Eric attended Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, MD, where he played football and was president of the Junior Achievement club for two years. Eric exhibited a strong sense of purpose from an early age, and his commitment to excellence led him to West Point in 1974. He embraced the rigorous academic and physical challenges that defined the institution. As a cadet in companies C-3 and B-3, he was known for his unwavering dedication and leadership skills, as well as a love of lacrosse, the outdoors, and Robin, his high school sweetheart. </p>
<p>Eric selected Air Defense Artillery on branch night and served at Fort Bragg, NC for his first assignment. He decided to branch transfer to the Medical Corps to become a doctor in 1980. Eric served at Medical Department Activity (MEDDAC), Fort Belvoir, MD (1980-82), got his MD from George Washington University in 1986, and served at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (1986-87), MEDDAC, Fort Carson, CO (1987-88), and Johns Hopkins Hospital (1988). He was chief, orthopedic surgery in Panama (1992-95), and chief, department surgery, MEDDAC at Fort Benning (1995-96). </p>
<p>Eric transitioned to private practice in 1996 and, in 1998, joined Peninsula Orthopedic Associates as a partner in Salisbury, MD. He specialized in sports medicine and was instrumental in many orthopedic advances on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Eric performed the first cartilage replacement surgery in 2000 and was an expert in arthroscopic techniques. He was an active member of Maryland’s Eastern Shore community and served as the team physician for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), Salisbury University, Delmarva Shorebirds, and Wicomico County Schools. Eric mentored local physician assistants, athletic trainers, and UMES physical therapy students and taught advanced surgery techniques nationally through his role as a master instructor for the Arthroscopy Association of North America. Eric’s passion for education was evident in his teaching style, which encouraged critical thinking and fostered a love for learning among his students. He served not only as a professor but as a mentor and friend, always willing to lend an ear or offer guidance.</p>
<p>Eric’s contributions extended beyond the classroom. He was actively involved in various community service initiatives, demonstrating his belief in giving back to society. Whether it was through volunteering, mentoring youth, or supporting veterans, Eric embodied the spirit of service that he had embraced throughout his life. </p>
<p>Family was at the heart of Eric’s life. Eric cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. Few men end up marrying their high-school sweetheart, but Eric married Robin, and they committed themselves to their marriage covenant (not contract). He and Robin had two children, Ricky and Erica, and were proud grandparents to Erica’s two children. His love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life. He created a nurturing environment filled with laughter, love, and support. Ricky and Erica often spoke of their father’s unwavering belief in their potential, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with passion and determination. Eric was their biggest cheerleader, always present at their milestones and celebrations.</p>
<p>Eric lived a life of purpose and service and left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He embodied integrity, compassion, resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Eric faced challenges with grace and determination, never losing sight of his principles. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life was a testament to his character. Eric had a unique gift for making everyone feel valued and heard, and his friendships were deep and lasting. He laughed easily, often wearing a smile which reflected the joy in which he lived his life. Grip Hands; Be Thou at Peace.</p>
</body>
</html>