Donnie Wharton, United States Air Force Reserves

Donnie Wharton is deeply passionate and proud about his family’s history with the U.S. Armed Forces. “Both my grandfathers served in World War II; I have a cousin that was a test pilot, my father-in-law was a fighter pilot, his brother-in-law was a test pilot, and my son is currently serving as a fighter pilot, who’s also an Air Force Academy graduate,” said Wharton.

The vice president of Global Medical Response’s (GMR) combined growth division is also a Veteran, himself, having served with the Air Force Reserves for four years, starting at the age of 17. “My intent was to eventually fly for my Reserve Unit, but I left the service around 21 to pursue a civilian flying career, instead.”

But, while he left the military, the training he received from that experience was still in him. Today, Wharton remains grateful for the opportunity to have been an American Serviceman, which he says equipped him with life skills that he still uses today. “Ultimately, I learned valuable work-life lessons, such as attention to details, honor, trust and the importance of staying focused on the mission. These values help me to deliver my best work-product with integrity.”

Rank Achieved
E-4, Sergeant

Most Interesting Experience While Serving
Refueling fighter jets. It was one of the most exciting tasks as an 18-year-old and brings back a lot of good memories. I still miss being around my squadron teammates, pilots and the greatest aircraft on the planet!

What Appealed to You About Serving with GMR?
I started in the EMS industry more than 20 years ago, 15 of those years with REACH Air Medical Services/Global Medical Response. I fell in love with the patient aspect of the mission, particularly serving my community. Not a month went by where I didn’t fly someone I know or a family member of someone I know. It is a priceless feeling to see the look of relief and hope when arriving at bedside to care for a patient. It’s a feeling that money can’t buy. This is what GMR allows me to experience.