TWELVE-YEAR-OLD Mathias Montoya watched, wide-eyed, as his parents tucked their crisp uniforms into their starched pants. The morning light glinted off their polished boots, symbolizing the years they’d dedicated to serving their country in the Navy’s Medical Corps. A sense of awe filled the room, and a tiny seed of inspiration took root within Montoya. The desire to follow in their footsteps — to be part of something bigger than himself — was undeniable. Though he didn’t realize it then, life would soon become a training ground for his future endeavors. Every path he took in life led him to the same destination: servanthood.
As a teenager, he worked as a life- guard, which instilled in him a mindset of serving others. Later, when he became an EMT and firefighter, the sound of sirens was no longer just background noise. It was a call to action that he fully embraced. Each role gave him a raw understanding of human vulnerability.
Montoya was a well-known figure in his town before he joined the military. He was recognized for his excellent teaching skills at Tullahoma’s Highland Rim Homeschool Cooperative, outstanding basketball refereeing skills, and acting talents at the Manchester Arts Center and South Jackson Performing Arts Center.
“I have served the community any way I could. It brings me such joy to see the lives you can affect with some of your time and good works,” he explained.
However, Montoya’s most defining experience was with the Tennessee State Guard, where he volunteered for three years from 2020-2023 and solidified his desire to serve his country. He rose through the ranks and became the personnel noncommissioned Officer for over 60 personnel.
He eventually became one of the primary instructors for the 61st Medical Squadron, teaching 1,000 airmen a combat casualty care course in February 2023. Remarkably, it was during this drill that Montoya met his recruiter.
Montoya’s dream finally came true when, at just 23 years old, in April 2023, he enlisted in the Air Force National Guard. Joining the Guard felt like a natural progression for this natural-born leader.
Basic Military Training (BMT) presented challenges, surrounded by men of different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Despite the differences among the group, Montoya thrived, seeing every challenge as a learning opportunity.
“Sometimes, you’re in the right place at the right time. It took about one week for the dorm to become brothers,” he remarked.
He and his team emerged as the “best of the best flight” during training. They also scored the highest on the end-of-course test, averaging 94, winning academic excellence. These impressive accomplishments were undoubtedly the result of the strong bond they forged and their determination to be the best they could be during their training.
During his time away, letters from home were his lifelines. Each one was a familiar voice encouraging him along across the miles. Though he missed his wife dearly, her steadfast love and support and their strong family network kept him going. Their support system was even more helpful when a tree fell on their home shortly after he left for BMT.
“You never can feel more powerless as a man when your wife and home need your help, and you’re not there,” he began. “Thankfully, mine and my wife’s family got everything taken care of, and I’m eternally grateful for that.”
Montoya discovered a new aspect of his identity during technical training after BMT. He assisted fellow guard members and reservists by translating the complicated regulations of the Air Force in a friendly manner. Rather than simply giving orders, he embraced the philosophy of being a servant leader, which is now a fundamental part of his character.
Graduating at the top of his electrician class solidified his dedication to excellence. Every day was a race to understand electrical work at its finest alongside a group of intelligent classmates he now considers friends.
He draws strength from his loving wife and supportive family as he continues his service. They understand the sacrifices inherent to military life, and their ongoing support strengthens their bond with each deployment and training session.
“My wife has dealt with my being gone with patience and grace. The key to overcoming the distance is communication through phone, letters, and smoke signals, and taking every opportunity to see her in person.”
May Montoya’s story honor all those who serve, sacrifice, and protect this great nation.
“I’m proud to be a part of history and part of something bigger than myself for the state I love,” he said. “I want my family, friends, and my future children to know what it’s like to live in a nation where independence is king. I intend to serve as long as I can and make a difference, even if no one ever knows what I have done.” GN
