Dr. Van Hicks worked at the Morris Hospital for 49 years and was the FAA Medical Doctor for 55 years. Dr. Hicks was involved in many medical organizations, such as Director of Medical Education within the Morris Hospital, Medical Director of Lincoln Retirement Home, Utilization Review of Physicians at Walnut Grove Retirement Home, President of Morris Hospital Medical Staff, and a delegate of the Illinois State Medical Society. Dr. Hicks accomplished many things, such as opening the first coronary care unit in Morris and authoring a book on Aviation Safety.