Willowbrook alumnus finding success in U.S. Air Force

Willowbrook alumnus Joseph A. Byrne (class of 2019, pictured above) was recently highlighted in the Vance Air Force Base “Airman in the Spotlight” newsletter for his dedication to the U.S. Air Force and the level of success he has accomplished.

According to the article, Airman First Class Byrne (who works for the 71st Operations Support Squadron in the Radar Approach Control facility) “is wasting no time making his mark. He has secured one of three ratings to become a rated air traffic controller. Always striving for excellence in all he does, Airman Byrne is ready for any challenge set forth on him.”

Byrne joined the Air Force right after graduating from Willowbrook, and he has already earned the title of Top Physical Training Male for the 321st training squadron (boot camp) and graduated top of his class in technical training for air traffic control with a 92-percent average. In the next four years, Byrne plans to reach the rank of staff sergeant, go on a deployment overseas, earn a degree in aerospace physiology and work for the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller.

“I joined the military to honestly grow up,” Byrne said. “I now have a really good job, I know how to properly manage finances, and I also can further my education through college for free.”

During his time at Willowbrook, Byrne was a four-year member of the Boys Basketball Team, and he still enjoys the sport. He said the staff at the school taught him social skills he still uses every day, as well as how to aspire to always want to improve.

“I would like to thank all of the teachers at Willowbrook for guiding me to become the man I am today,” Byrne said. “I can positively say I would not be where I am without the constant support and knowledge I received there!”