Bohac named to Union Leader's '40 under Forty'

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mark Wyatt
  • 157th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
PEASE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.H. --  Master Sgt. Mark Bohac, a N.H. Air National Guard Recruiting supervisor, was recognized March 19 at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord as a recipient of the New Hampshire Union Leader's 40 Under Forty Granite State residents this year.

"Master Sergeant Bohac's wife, Rachel, contacted me and asked if I could assist her in submitting his nomination package," said Senior Master Sgt. Ronald Connary, 157th Air Refueling Wing Recruiting superintendent.

Bohac, along with state business owners, elected officials, a police officer, a teacher, heads of non-profit organizations, lawyers, media professionals and engineers, were each recognized at this year's gathering that drew nearly 300 people.

"To be nominated alongside so many other impressive leaders from New Hampshire is a humbling experience and one I truly appreciate," said Bohac.

According to the Union leader's website, this is the 13th year the Union Leader has named 40 young leaders.

As the Recruiting Office supervisor for the 157th Recruiting team, Bohac is responsible for managing two recruiting offices, Pease and Manchester.

Connary said Bohac has made great strides in marketing the N.H. Air Guard in colleges and high schools throughout the state.

"In this position, Mark's true talents come out with supervising a staff of five, scrutinizing all enlistment packages prior to submitting to the 157th Force Support Squadron," added Connary. "He ensures the best applicants swear into the 157th. He mentors and provides training to the Recruiting team. He is respected by his team and throughout the wing for his candidness and professionalism."

The program recognizes New Hampshire residents under 40 years old that are involved in activities to "make the Granite State a better place to live."

"There is no question that the National Guard as a whole, and specifically the Air National Guard for me does tremendous things for New Hampshire," said Bohac. "Not only do we respond to state emergencies helping our local communities but the Guard gives options for people to learn a new skill, cultivate an existing skill and promote lifelong learning throughout their careers here."

Connary echoed that sentiment, adding, Bohac makes New Hampshire a better place by reinforcing the importance of serving your country and the great state of New Hampshire.
"Master Sergeant Bohac makes New Hampshire a better place in a number of ways," said Connary. "Certain areas in the state have higher unemployment rates than others. Families are struggling to find ways to send their loved ones to college. As a Recruiting Office supervisor, he supervises a team of outstanding professionals that provide an opportunity for someone to pursue a higher education and reduce future financial burdens."

The Union Leader solicits nominations and then selects group members based on a criteria that includes age, New Hampshire residency and contributions to their professional field, community or state, the website read.

"I am very fortunate that working in the recruiting office is an extremely rewarding career," said Bohac. "It truly changes people's lives when they come into our unit. I have had many great 'Thank you' letters written to me for assisting in helping sons or daughters alter their path in life to include the Air Guard."

He went on to express his thanks to his wife Rachael, who was inspired by the letters written and decided to submit him for the 40 Under Forty without his knowing.

"Senior Master Sergeant Connary played a role as well in making sure Rachael had the facts straight," he continued. "It was certainly humbling to hear that I was nominated and am grateful to have an awesome wife and a strong mentor in my supervisor. I want to thank them both for this great honor."

Among the guests included were civic and business leaders, previous recipients, former Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown and Gov. Maggie Hassan.

"In this career field there is no greater feeling than knowing you are the first line of building the future of the N.H. Air Guard," Connary said. "Master Sergeant Bohac and his team set the stage on what it means to be in the N.H. Air Guard family. We listen, we encourage, and we watch the best of the best to become incredible Airmen in the 157th."

Any New Hampshire resident of three years who does not turn 40 before Feb. 1, 2015, is eligible for the next class of 40 Under Forty. Nominations should be submitted to UnionLeader.com/forty.