In addition to John Gish’s oath to uphold the law as Washington County attorney, he also swore an oath to defend the United States of America. Gish, a captain in the U.S. Army Reserve, was recently selected to deploy with the 311th Sustainment Command (expeditionary) in support of its mission in Kuwait. Gish will serve as the engineer officer where he will provide technical protection guidance for the 311th’s area of operations.

“It is an honor to serve this great nation, and I am thankful for the opportunity to wear the uniform,” Gish said. “There is a proud tradition of military service in Washington County, and I am humbled by the many area men and women who have sacrificed for the sake of our national security.” 

Gish added that he is finalizing a plan for the Washington County attorney’s office to continue efficiently operating in his absence, which will include Gish voluntarily forfeiting his salary and hiring a temporary prosecutor to serve in his place. 

Gish noted he has two prosecutors on staff already. 

“We have a strong core of staff in our office, and we are equipped for success. I am confident the office will continue to thrive while I am serving overseas.”

The Washington County attorney is scheduled to report to Fort Hood, Texas, on March 8 and will deploy to Kuwait several weeks later. Gish is expected to return to the Washington County attorney’s office in early 2021.