Joshua Cotner

Name: Joshua Cotner
City/State: Springfield, Missouri
Branch of Service: US Marine Corps
Years of Service: 2004-2008
Last Rank Held: E5-Sergeant
Military Occupation: Automotive Maintenance Technician and Machine Gunner

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

I am married to my amazing wife, Leah, and father to three young boys, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Currently, I am completing my master’s in social work while interning at the VA. My professional goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in addiction and trauma counseling for veterans.

As a family, we are deeply committed to supporting homeless veterans. We actively participate in local outreach efforts, providing gardening assistance, food support, and backpacks with essential items and offering time to connect and provide companionship to those facing difficult circumstances. Additionally, we assist veteran families with DE hoarding, helping to clear homes overwhelmed by clutter due to trauma.

In my personal time, I focus on my children, drawing inspiration from their resilience and determination to overcome challenges and thrive.

Why are you joining the IAVA Cavalry?

The emotional stress and physical challenges of being a combat Marine were intense, but I never anticipated that the most difficult battles would be the ones I faced when returning home and reintegrating into civilian life. After leaving the Marine Corps, I had no support to help me process PTSD, cope with alcohol use, or navigate the profound grief of the death of my first wife shortly after transitioning out of service. Additionally, I struggled with the physical and mental effects of my time in service.

Feeling helpless is a powerful emotion, and I believe asking for help shouldn’t be so difficult. Accessing resources for mental health, medical care, education assistance, addiction support, and suicide prevention should never be hindered by red tape. I vividly remember, thanks to the unwavering support of my wife, walking into the Vet Center and hearing the representative ask, “What was so hard about walking through that door to get help?”

My “why” is simple: to ensure that every service member facing similar struggles has access to the support they need, without the burden of unnecessary barriers. I am committed to advocating for policies and resources that empower our veterans to live a life free from the limitations of physical, emotional, or financial hardship. They have given so much, and they deserve our unwavering support. I want to make it easier for service members to walk through the doors, that seem to hard to open, to get help and support.

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

Serving as a Marine instilled in me, the core values of respect, service, loyalty, determination, and patience. It taught me humility, the importance of leading by example, and holding myself to a higher standard. These lessons have significantly shaped my school and career path, where respect, professionalism, and a strong work ethic are not only valued but essential.

I did not have the support of a traditional family, and the Marine Corps became my family. They stood by me through countless battles during and after my service. I am forever grateful for their unwavering support, and this camaraderie drives my commitment to supporting my fellow brothers and sisters in arms.

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

Democracy is the foundation upon which all other policy priorities must be built. Without it, progress in any other area becomes unattainable. To ensure a just and prosperous future, we must uphold democratic principles, respect human rights, and safeguard fundamental freedoms.

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

I personally struggled with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Under the care of a psychologist and medical doctor, I underwent a series of eight ketamine treatments administered once a week. While there is some debate over whether ketamine should be classified as a psychedelic, my personal experience was overwhelmingly positive. Since completing the treatments, I have not faced severe depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.

While antidepressants and traditional therapy can be effective for some, they do not work for everyone. We must explore scientific evidence and consider alternative treatment options for our service members, ensuring that we provide the best possible care for those who may not respond to conventional methods.