In 1930, a group of physicians began flying to other countries to demonstrate the latest methods in surgery and medicine. The first stop for these doctors was the Pan American Medical Association convention in Panama City, Panama, followed by trips to hospitals throughout Latin America. The first demonstration of a U.S. surgical technique was performed on this date in 1930 by Dr. Fred Houdlett Albee. Two years later, Albee returned to Latin America to operate on the son of the Venezuelan President Gomez. In return, the President decorated Albee with the Order of Libertador, Grade of Commander.

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