October 2009 Portrait of a Professional

  • Published
  • 129th Rescue Wing Public Affairs Office
MOFFETT FEDERAL AIRFIELD, Calif. --  Portrait of a Professional is a monthly profile of an outstanding Staff Sgt. and below. Staff Sgt. Joshua Webster, 131st Rescue Squadron pararescueman, is featured in this month's Portrait of a Professional.

What motivated you to enlist in the AF?
I was an Army Ranger deployed in 2003 to Afghanistan where I was stationed at Bagram Air Base. Being a Ranger we got to hang out with the pararescue team, specifically two 129th PJs. I talked to one of the PJs about his job, the mission and what life was like. I was then ready to switch jobs and join the Guard. 

How has being an Airman changed your outlook on life?
Not until you've actually worked toward something as valuable and important as civil service and something that you consider greater than yourself, like a rescue mission, do you tend to appreciate what you get after the fact. After getting out of the Army, switching jobs and getting in to the Guard, I've had the opportunity to enjoy everything that I've worked for. 

If you could choose any AF job, which would it be?
I switched branches, went through a completely separate, mind and body crushingly hard indoctrination to be here. I almost lost rank, almost had to re-do basic training and have been the same rank for the past eight years because of this job, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my job. 

What is your job in the civilian world?
Before joining the Army I was a lifeguard, fitness instructor and personal trainer. Since joining 129th, I attended UCLA as a history major and graduated this summer. 

What would people be surprised to know about you? 
I want to write a book. Right now I'm just regurgitating stories from all the times that I can remember being in the military, I'd like it to end up a book, but it needs form and a clear argument. The stories mostly regard my faith while in the military, focusing on my Ranger unit consisting of an atheist, a Mormon, a Christian, and a Buddhist and our religious discussions. 

What are your hobbies?
I play the guitar and I enjoy singing as well, usually on camping trips. I'm currently teaching myself to play the piano; I'm also pretty good with any instrument with strings.