Joshua Schumacker, 22 of Findlay is our June Military Salute.
Schumacker, a graduate of Findlay High School, enlisted with the Unites States Marine Corps in 2004, completing a goal he has always had. After finishing Basic Training at Parris Island, South Carolina, he has been to Fallujah and Ramadi, Iraq, both on combat tours. He is a machine gunner and has patrolled around Iraq on humvees.
"I was the guy behind the machinegun on top of the humvee. I also was on a deployment where we did a humanitarian mission in Indonesia."
Schumacker also trained in Camp Geiger in NC, 29 Palms in California, Fort Picket in Virginia, AP hill in Virginia, Camp Lejuene in NC and in Kuwait, preparing for Iraq.
"I went to school to become a machinegunner then went to a advanced school to be on top of my game. I also went through a leadership course and others."
Joshua explains that in addition to always wanting to serve in the infantry, his inspiration to serve our country comes from his fellow Marines. " ..(they) push me on… The armed forces is a great job and being in (service) is a great accomplishment. Especially the Marines. You can't have a better title than a United States Marine Infantryman."
After completing his service, Joshua plans to get a degree in law enforcement and hopes to find a government job in Findlay while in school.
In his spare time, Schumacker enjoys working out and playing guitar. Joshua is the son of Timothy Schumacker of Findlay and his mother Jay Schumacker, also of Findlay. His brother Isaiah has also served with the United States Marine Corps and lives in Toledo.
