Joshua Weeks R.N. Joshua Weeks serves as a testament to dedication and adaptability, transitioning from military service to a fulfilling career in emergency medicine Joshua’s early career aspirations led him to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at St. Leo University. However, his life took a significant turn when he felt a calling to serve his country. Joshua joined the Florida Army National Guard in 2011. During his time, he participated in training and drilling activities to equip him with a variety of skills in areas such as first aid, shooting, and water insertion of zodiac boats from helicopters. He was deployed to the Horn of Africa from 2015 to 2016, where he played a crucial role in securing airfields and bases in Djibouti. As a specialist in the infantry, he served as a radio, telephone, and light machine gun operator, and received sniper training. His experiences in the military shaped his perspective on service and instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility, discipline, and comradery. It was during this time that Joshua’s interest in health care was ignited by speaking to medics, practicing combat life saver techniques, and assisting with pararescue casualty trainings. After completing his military service in 2017, Joshua decided to continue his journey in service to others, this time in the health care sector. He enrolled in Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training and subsequently pursued a nursing degree at Tallahassee State College. Despite initial challenges, Joshua’s military background equipped him with the resilience and determination needed to excel in his studies and clinical practice. At Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare (TMH), Joshua found his niche in the fast-paced environment of the Emergency Room (ER). Drawing from his experiences as an infantryman and his combat life saver skills, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain calm under pressure and make critical decisions swiftly. His dedication to patient care and his proficiency in handling diverse medical emergencies quickly made him an invaluable member of the health care team. Outside of his professional life, Joshua finds joy and relaxation in spending time with his wife and children, as well as pursuing outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, building, and camping. His commitment to family and community mirrors his dedication to service. Joshua’s journey from the National Guard to the ER is not just a career transition but a testament to his unwavering commitment to helping others. His ability to seamlessly integrate military discipline with compassionate health care makes him a role model in both fields. Whether he’s training to save lives during times of conflict or in an ER setting, Joshua embodies the values of service, resilience, and leadership. As he continues to grow in his health care career, Joshua remains focused on impacting his community, driven by a passion for brightening people’s days and a deep-seated belief in the importance of service above oneself. 2024 FLORIDA VETERAN HEALTH HEROES PAGE | 11
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