Garrett Hebert. Photo: Deb Dekoff

PARK CITY, Utah —The son of a pilot and flight attendant, Garrett Hebert grew up with his sights set on flight and an appreciation for the camaraderie inherent in team sports. As a high school graduate fresh off a successful year with his lacrosse team, continuing to be part of a brotherhood (in his eyes) meant either a fraternity or the military. “I figured the military was a better way to set a base that would carry on through the rest of my life and fund my college aspirations,” said Hebert. Hebert officially signed his contract with the Air National Guard on July 1. An All-State lacrosse player eager to become a military pilot, or forgo the college route altogether and become a firefighter – both high-flying aspirations for this (soon-to-be literal) courage-under-fire teen who grew up in the mountains.

Sandwiched between two sisters, Hebert grew up in the Trailside area with parents who both work for Delta Airlines. “I’ve lived in the same house my entire life,” Hebert said. “Living near all these beautiful fields and recreation is truly a blessing.” A natural athlete who tried his hand at several sports before focusing on hockey and lacrosse, Hebert remains highly interested and skilled at both, crediting hockey for becoming such a talented lacrosse player. “I started hockey at 7 years old, playing on club teams as I grew up,” Hebert said. He was a star athlete who made varsity all four years but chose to play only in his junior and senior years. In his final season, Hebert served as the team captain on both the Park City High School lacrosse and hockey teams, a demonstration of his leadership, character, and standing among his teammates. As his talents within lacrosse grew, Garrett established a permanent role with a long pole on the defensive side of the field, winning two state championships during his time at Park City High School, and making First Team All-State during his senior year.

As summer ended, Hebert prepared for his transition to military life. He worked at Talisker Club Golf Course, went backpacking in Northern Canada, and said goodbye to friends pursuing their own post-high school paths. With basic training set for October, Hebert’s experiences in Park City’s mountains and on its sports fields have laid a strong foundation for his upcoming military journey.