Army Lt. Erika Karsch, originally from Lexington, has graduated from the Physician Assistant Program through the University of Nebraska Medical Center with a master’s degree in physician assistant studies.
The ceremony was held June 7 at the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center in Texas.
The daughter of Carol and Rudy Karsch and a 2007 graduate of Rockbridge County High School, Karsch attended Oberlin College, earning a bachelor’s degree in math.
She enlisted in the United States Army as a combat medic in 2017. Her first assignment was to the Brigade Support Battalion, 173rd in Vicenza, Italy. Karsch served as a health care non-commissioned officer and flight NCO for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 160th, Special Operations Aviation Regiment.
In 2022, she graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center with a bachelor of science degree in physician assistant studies.
Upon this month’s graduation with her master’s degree, she reported to 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), and serves as a physician assistant.
Karsch’s military honors include two Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, two Good Conduct medals, an Overseas Service Ribbon, an Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon (second award), National Defense Service Medal, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, and a Humanitarian Service Medal.
She is married to Sgt. Anthony Yazzie, currently serving as a medical NCO in the 15th Brigade, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team on Fort Cavazos.