Photo By Staff Sgt. Therese Prats | CW1 Patrik W. Orcutt of the Maine Army National Guard graduates from aviation school...... read more read more
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From boots to Black Hawks
U.S. Army Reserve story and photos by Staff Sgt. Therese Prats
CW1 Patrik W. Orcutt of the Maine Army National Guard has charted a remarkable path—from military police officer to public affairs specialist, and now, an aviator qualified on both UH-60 Black Hawks and UH-72 Lakotas. His path wasn’t easy, but it’s a powerful testament to perseverance and determination.
Before his military career, Orcutt attended Husson University in Bangor, Maine, where he earned a degree in video production, along with a certification in photography. His college experience fostered a passion for storytelling through visual media, which would later serve him well in his military career. Although he initially envisioned a future in videography, Orcutt's decision to join the Army would ultimately reshape his life and career in ways he never expected.
Orcutt’s military journey began as a military police officer, where he developed leadership skills and a strong sense of discipline. These traits helped him transition into his role as a public affairs specialist, where his background in video production and photography flourished. During a 3 1/2-year tour in Germany, he covered joint special operations at U.S. Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR), gaining a broader understanding of military operations and deepening his skills in communication.
“Orcutt’s technical expertise in design and videography were invaluable during our time together at SOCEUR,” said U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Therese Prats, who worked alongside him in the public affairs shop. “We made an awesome team together, and I always knew he wanted to go beyond his career in public affairs. It’s really cool to think back to him studying for the SIFT test in Germany and now seeing him graduate from flight school years later.”
Even as he thrived in public affairs, Orcutt's eyes were set on the skies. His decision to become an aviator was not without obstacles, but his determination drove him to push through. The program required technical expertise, physical endurance, and mental toughness. “Flight school was the single most difficult Army course I have gone through,” Orcutt said. “It required 100% of my attention six days a week for many months.” Despite the physical demands and mental challenges of aviation school, Orcutt stayed focused on his goal, always looking forward to the day he could fly.
After 18 months of hard work and persistence, Orcutt proudly stood before his family and peers as a graduate of aviation school. His parents and friends who traveled from different parts of the east coast to witness the ceremony, were filled with pride. Orcutt’s father, who served eight years in the Army as a military communications specialist, had always encouraged his son to pursue his military dreams, even when the path seemed uncertain.
“Watching him achieve his goal is a proud moment for our family,” said Warren Orcutt. “But Patrik hasn’t hung up his traveling gear yet. There’s still so much ahead for him. I know this is just the beginning of his next adventure. There were definitely some close calls along the way. I wasn’t sure if he’d make it through aviation school at times, but seeing him graduate today, I couldn’t be prouder.”
Alex Orcutt reflected on her initial hesitation when her son expressed an interest in joining the military. “I didn’t want him to join,” she admitted. “I wanted him to pursue something else, but his father convinced me. I did my best to let go of my fears. I’m just so proud of everything he’s accomplished.” Yet, as a mother, her worry never fades. “No matter how grown he is, I can’t help but worry everyday, especially when I know he’s out there in the sky. But I’m incredibly proud of everything he’s achieved.”
Among the crowd at the graduation was U.S. Army Reserve MAJ Molly Collins, a close friend and former public affairs planner at SOCEUR, where Orcutt had served alongside her during his tour in Germany. Collins, who had seen Orcutt rise to the challenges before him, shared her admiration. “No matter the challenge, Patrik has always seen it through.”
After earning his wings, Orcutt is ready to take on his new role as a UH-60 Black Hawk and UH-72 Lakota pilot. The versatile Black Hawk is essential for a variety of Army missions, from troop transport to medevac operations. Orcutt’s background as a military police officer, public affairs specialist, and expert in video production and photography has made him an even more well-rounded and dynamic soldier.
Reflecting on his decision to pursue aviation, Orcutt said, “I didn’t want to be stuck behind a desk. I wanted to keep moving forward in my career, to keep growing, and to challenge myself. Flying a Black Hawk is the next step in that journey. It’s been humbling, but I’m ready for it.”
As Orcutt embarks on this new chapter of his career, his story serves as a reminder that with resilience and determination, no dream is too big. “No challenge is too great if you’re willing to work for it,” he said. “The sky is never the limit.”
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| Date Taken: | 04.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 08.11.2025 11:33 |
| Story ID: | 545281 |
| Location: | US |
| Hometown: | STEUBEN, MAINE, US |
| Web Views: | 90 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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