Josh Kohn, BHS alumni who graduated nearly 20 years ago, in 2005, has been in the military for nearly 14 years. He shares his advice and his story about being in the United States Air Force.
Q: Did you enjoy your experience at BHS? Why or why not?
“Absolutely. The teachers, coaches, and staff were amazing at BHS. I had a great time and a great overall experience.”
Q: What encouraged you to join the military
“My dad served 30 years in the military, which encouraged a strong sense of pride in our nation and a commitment to service in our family. Ever since I can remember I’ve wanted to serve in the military. I can still remember watching 9/11 unfold on live television in the BHS cafeteria my freshman year of high school. It had a lasting impact that led to my current military career and my civilian career as a firefighter paramedic that lasted for over a decade.”
Q: What branch of the military are you in?
“I am in the United States Air Force via the Kansas Air National Guard.”
Q: How long have you been in the military?
“I served nine years enlisted in the military before having a break in service for a few years. I then re-enlisted and eventually commissioned as an officer in the Kansas Air National Guard. I am going on 14 years of service now.”
Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to join the military?
“Joining the military has been one of the single greatest decisions I have made in my life. I enlisted as an Air Force firefighter, which led to my civilian career as a firefighter paramedic for more than a decade. The military provided me with a vast amount of training and certification opportunities that were immediately recognized in my civilian career. I earned education benefits that allowed me to earn two associates degrees, a bachelor’s degree, and a master’s degree. With my education, I was then able to pursue a commissioning opportunity and become an officer in the Kansas Air National Guard. It was also these education opportunities that allowed me further opportunities in my civilian career as I transitioned from emergency services to becoming a risk officer in banking. I have had the opportunity to travel around the nation and around the world representing the Kansas Air National Guard and the United States of America. I’ve met people and been exposed to cultures I would have never otherwise been exposed to. The experiences and the opportunities the military has afforded me are unequaled. My advice to someone wanting to join the military is, do it. Don’t be afraid of doing hard things and don’t be afraid of being uncomfortable. Doing hard things and working outside of our comfort zone is what allows us to grow at exponential rates. Take advantage of the opportunities and don’t shy away from discomfort.”