Grand Forks Airman accepted into USAFA

  • Published
  • By Airman Derek VanHorn
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  For a young man who always knew he would join the military, one might think being born and raised an hour away from the U.S. Air Force Academy would provide plenty incentive for a future career. But that was hardly the case for Senior Airman Josh Vermeylen, 319th Medical Operations Squadron, who jumped on an opportunity to take a path less traveled.

"Growing up in Colorado I always knew of the Academy, but before arriving in Grand Forks I had zero interest in attending," Airman Vermeylen said. "It was during the First Term Airman's Course that I heard about a program that allows enlisted members to commission through the Academy. I figured I would apply to see what would happen, and the rest is history."

That history was eventually being accepted to the heralded school through the Leaders Encouraging Airmen Development program following an extensive application process that took more than a year to complete. The LEAD program is an ongoing Air Force effort to provide its brightest Airmen the opportunity to excel by offering them appointments to the Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Airman Vermeylen is slated to begin prep school July 6, and is eager to get the ball rolling.

"I am extremely excited about this opportunity," said the current aerospace medical technician. "It is a privilege to be accepted and I am very excited about this entire process."

Airman Vermeylen currently works to ensure all enlisted non-flying members here are both physically and mental prepared to deploy. Standing over six feet tall, he enjoys his job but is also open to various potential possibilities that may arise following this fortunate change of situation.

"I am contemplating what to do next," he said. "If the opportunity to become a flyer came up I would definitely take advantage, but for the time being I plan on working toward becoming an aero medical evacuator."

Whether it will be flying planes or treating patients inside of them, Airman Vermeylen encourages what tests may lie ahead.

"My main purpose of applying was not to commission, but rather to challenge myself," said the red haired Airman. "The more challenges that come my way, the more motivated I am to overcome them. I know it will be rough at times but it will definitely be worth it."

Airman Vermeylen knows the transition will likely also be a life-changing event from what he has grown accustomed to.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as an enlisted Airman," he said. "I feel honored and consider this a stepping stone for my both my career and future."