Dylan Vogel

  • Published
  • By Airman Pedro Mota
  • 56th Fighter Wing
Dylan Vogel
by Airman Pedro Mota
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

The LEAD president at Luke Air Force Base,  Senior Airman Dylan Vogel, 56th Medical Operations Squadron medical technician, is also a dedicated family man.

When first meeting Vogel, he appears as a tall young man, with sincerity in his eyes. After a moment of speaking with him, it becomes apparent that he is older than he appears and has the experience to focus on what he wants.

His journey has given him a different perspective on life.

"I was born in Burbank, California," said Airman 1st Class Dylan Vogel, 56th Medical Operations Squadron medical technician. "I spent most of my childhood moving around. I left for Georgia when I was nine and graduated high school there."

Vogel spent his time in high school, playing soccer and basketball.

"After finishing high school I was given a basketball scholarship, but I took a year off school to live in Hawaii with my dad," he said. "When my grandma became sick, I ended up leaving for Washington State, where i began playing basketball in junior college. It ended with me dislocating my elbow"

Trying to stay active, he joined the track team with his friends and received a scholarship to Southern Utah University.

"I couldn't figure out what I wanted to major in and decided the military was the best option after learning I was going to be a father," Vogel said. "I felt like I reached a different stage in my life. Finding out I was having a daughter was definitely a big change in my life."

Vogel described how proud he was when she was born, when she first opened her eyes and when she held his finger for the first time.

"It was at that time when I had an epiphany," Vogel said. "Life is too short to worry about small things. I get frustrated at times like everyone does, but I can't let it bother me, I have to deal with it. I have to do what is best for my daughter, she matters too much to do anything dumb."

He now focuses his attention on the LEAD council, completing his bachelor's degree, moving on to his master's degree and most importantly raising his daughter.

"Five years from now I see myself being a Tech. Sgt. with my little girl being in school," Vogel said. "I want to retire as a chief. I just think there is something about becoming a chief that is awesome. I do want to stay in and I plan on it. I believe, it will be best for me and my daughter."