Southard enlisted in the Army in 2015, as a 15T UH-60 “Black Hawk” repairer. He was first assigned to the 1st Armored Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Bliss, Texas upon completing advanced individual training.
Southard later completed a 13-month rotation to Task Force Sinai in support of ongoing peacekeeping operations. After finishing his tour, he reported to Fort Campbell’s 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. Southard volunteered for assignment to the 160th SOAR (Airborne) and after completing the Regiment’s extensive training and assessment program in 2023, he remained in 1st Battalion, 160th SOAR (Airborne) for service as an MH-60M crew chief.
While assigned to the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade, Southard deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Southard graduated from the Enlisted Combat Skills, Combatives Level 1, MH-60 Maintainers Course, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape School, MH-60 Non-Rated Crew Member Course, and the Basic Leaders Course.
Southard’s awards and decorations include two Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Basic Aviation Badge.
