Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Strickland is the son of Shawn Strickland of Paducah and Missy Coonce of Vienna, IL and step-son of Terry Coonce of Vienna, IL and Laura Strickland of Paducah. He is a 2017 graduate of Vienna High School, Vienna, IL.