Command Sgt. Maj. Joshua John Peterson, a proud native of Portland, Oregon and began his distinguished military career on April 26, 2001, when he enlisted in the United States Army as an 11B Infantryman. He completed Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Moore, Georgia, followed by the prestigious United States Army Airborne Course.
Prior to 173rd Airborne Brigade, Peterson served as the Command Sergeant Major for the 3rd Security Force Assistance Brigade at Fort Cavazos, Texas. His prior assignments include serving as the Command Sergeant Major for 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry "Tomahawks" at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, and as the operations sergeant for the elite 1st Ranger Battalion at Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, Georgia.
Peterson has 19 combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq in support of multiple Operation, exemplifying his dedication and commitment to the mission and the welfare of his soldiers.
His military education is both extensive and impressive, including the Basic Leader Course (BLC), Advanced Leader Course (ALC), Senior Leader Course (SLC), Combat Life Saver (CLS) Plus, Airborne Course, Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP), Ranger Course, Jumpmaster Course, and the Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE-C) Course.
Peterson’s awards and decorations reflect his exceptional service and sacrifice. They include the Bronze Star Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal. Additionally, he has earned the Combat Action Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and the coveted Ranger Tab.
Beyond his professional achievements, Command Sergeant Major Peterson is a devoted family man. He is married to his wife, Brandy Peterson, and together they are raising their four children: Gabriel Donaldson, 20, Lucian Peterson,17, Livian Peterson, 14, Liam Donaldson, 11.