TOPEKA (KSNT) – After more than 30 years of military service, one Topeka veteran is reflecting on his experiences, relationships and lessons that shaped his life while in service.
Mark Goforth first enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1986 at 18 years old. He served until 1994 as a boiler technician, operating the steam systems that helped power ships. After leaving the military, Goforth returned to service following the September 11 attacks.
“After 9/11, I decided I wanted to join again. So, that’s when I joined the Army National Guard,” Goforth said.
He joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 2003 and served until 2025. During that time, he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, including deployments to Kuwait and Iraq.
Goforth held several positions throughout his Army National Guard career, including motor transport operator, first sergeant and sergeant major. He most recently served with the 35th Infantry Division in Leavenworth, retiring at the rank of sergeant major.
Looking back on his deployments, Goforth said the relationships he built with fellow service members are among the memories that stand out most.
“I think my deployed time just sticks out the most because you become such a tight knit family with all your brothers and sisters as you’re overseas,” Goforth said. “And I think that’s what I remember the most is just the camaraderie you build with all the soldiers that you serve with and sailors.”
His time overseas also came with challenges, including being away from his family during important moments. But in 2011, while deployed in Baghdad, Goforth learned his wife, Jane, had breast cancer.
“My unit did everything they could to make sure I got home to help take care of my wife,” Goforth said.
Goforth said the support of military families is essential to those serving overseas. He specifically wanted to recognize his wife and son, Trevor, for the support they provided throughout his military career.
Military service has also become part of another generation of his family. Goforth said his niece is currently serving in the U.S. Army, as a staff sergeant and is currently deployed. He said she once told him he was her hero growing up. Now, he considers her his hero.
After retiring from the military in 2025, Goforth began focusing on his civilian career as a safety manager for Ruan Transportation, where he has worked for more than 21 years. He also enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren.
Reflecting on what his military career taught him, Goforth said discipline and purpose were among the biggest lessons from serving that he carried into civilian life.
“When I first joined the military, I had no discipline, and I was going nowhere fast. And, the Navy gave me a purpose, and the military taught me discipline. And it helped me grow up a lot, and it really molded me into the person I am today,” Goforth said.
After decades of service, Goforth said he is proud of the people he served alongside and the accomplishments he made during his time in uniform.
For Goforth, the experience is one he wouldn’t change.
To nominate a veteran you know, you can send an email to veterans@ksnt.com.
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