Joseph Somosky

• Branch: Army, Army National Guard
• Years Served: 1993-1999 (Active Duty), 2000-2008 (Army National Guard)
• Rank: Sergeant
• Military Occupation: Infantry
• Hometown: Peyton, CO
• Twitter Handle: TBD

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

After my active duty service, I pursued a career in law enforcement, embodying the Army value of selfless service. I have served as a Homicide and Cold Case Homicide Detective with the Colorado Springs Police Department and am currently a Major Crimes Agent with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. I also served as President of the Colorado Springs Police Protective Association. In my free time, I enjoy exploring the Colorado backcountry on public lands, which veterans have fought to protect.

Why are you participating in the fly-in with IAVA?

I am honored to advocate on behalf of post-September 11th veterans during the Global War on Terror. My combat deployment experiences have inspired me to support IAVA’s policy priorities, including combating suicide, addressing toxic burn pit exposure, supporting women veterans, modernizing the VA, enhancing veteran education benefits, and promoting alternative therapies. These issues are crucial to me both as a veteran and because of their personal impact.

How did your military experience shape you to be the person you are today?

My military service has greatly influenced my success in both professional and personal spheres. It taught me to achieve goals, work effectively in diverse teams, and develop leadership skills, all of which have contributed to my accomplishments and growth.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you believe is the most pressing? Why?

The adverse effects of toxic burn pit exposure are particularly pressing. Although the recent PACT Act has improved VA responses, much more research is needed to diagnose and treat diseases linked to burn pit exposure. The full extent of these conditions remains unknown.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you have the strongest personal connection to? Why?

Combating veteran suicide is deeply personal to me. After returning from Iraq, I lost three of my Soldiers to suicide. This tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced mental health care and support for veterans. Despite progress, more resources are needed to address and prevent veteran suicide effectively.