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From Combat Medic to Army Aviator: Major Nathan Cumming on Service, Transition & Resilience

Jun 29, 2026 · 1h 59m

About this episode

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Bryan & Marie, we sit down with Major Nathan Cumming, a U.S. Army officer preparing to retire after more than 23 years of distinguished service. Nathan’s journey began shortly after 9/11, when he enlisted as a computer automations repairer before serving as a combat medic and later commissioning as a UH‑60 Black Hawk pilot. He completed two overseas combat tours as a medic with the Army’s former 3‑2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team from 2006–2007 and 2009–2010, rising through leadership roles from squad leader to company commander. Today, he serves in HQDA G‑1 as the Aviation Personnel Synchronization Staff Officer — guiding the next generation of Army aviators while preparing for his own transition to civilian life. Join Bryan and Marie for a grounded conversation about: The evolution of service from enlisted to officer Lessons learned from combat and command The challenges of military transition and identity How resilience and purpose shape life after uniform Major Cumming’s story reflects the courage, adaptability, and leadership that define America’s soldiers — and the strength it takes to move forward after more than two decades of service.