Kenneth “Zane” Greenwood, United States Army

For Kenneth “Zane” Greenwood, service has been a constant throughout his career. From serving in the U.S. Army to becoming a Texas State trooper and now an Air Evac Lifeteam pilot, Zane has built his career on teamwork, discipline and a commitment to helping others.

Zane joined the Army during his senior year of high school, drawn to the challenge, structure and opportunity to pursue meaningful service at a young age. His decision also had a family connection. His grandfather served in the Army during the Korean War, and his uncle served during the Vietnam War.

Zane went on to serve nine years in the Army as a 19K M1 Armor Crewman, ultimately earning the rank of sergeant. As a member of an armored crew, he operated and maintained the M1 Abrams tank while working in an environment where communication, discipline and trust in those around him were essential.

His military service took him overseas to Germany and South Korea, experiences that broadened his perspective and became some of the most memorable parts of his time in the Army.

After nine years of military service, Zane transitioned to the Texas Department of Public Safety, where he continued his commitment to public service. He ultimately rose to the rank of captain in the aircraft operations division before retiring in May 2025. Just one month later, Zane began the next chapter of his career as a pilot with Air Evac Lifeteam. He was also drawn to Air Evac because of the reputation it had earned among pilots he knew and respected from his time with Texas DPS.

What Was Your Rank?

“I was a Sergeant, E-5, and was promotable after completing BNCOC.”

How Did Your Military Training Prepare You for Your Current Role?

“The Army taught me discipline, teamwork, accountability and how to remain focused when the stakes are high. As an armor crewman, everyone had a specific job, but the crew only succeeded when everyone worked together. Those lessons carried into my career with Texas DPS and now into air medical aviation. Whether you’re part of a tank crew, an aviation unit or an Air Evac medical crew, you have to trust the people around you, communicate clearly and understand that everyone has a role in accomplishing the mission safely.”

What Stands Out as a GMR Situation Where Your Military Experience Proved Helpful?

“There isn’t one particular mission that stands out. I think my military experience is reflected more in how I approach every mission. The Army taught me to prepare, stay disciplined, communicate with the people around me and remain calm when circumstances change. Those habits translate naturally to air medical aviation. Every mission is a team effort, and conditions don’t always go exactly as planned. Being able to assess a situation, make a decision and communicate that decision clearly while keeping safety and the mission in perspective is something my military experience helped instill in me.”