Mitch Holthus’ voice is closely linked to some of the most memorable moments in NFL history, and while he is best known for calling football games, he has also been a strong advocate for the real heroes in our community.
Born on a U.S. Army base in Fort Lewis, Washington, as the son of an Army field artillery officer, Holthus has served as the “Voice of the Chiefs” since 1994. Throughout his career, he has shown a deep commitment to honoring the men and women in our nation’s Armed Forces.
His position with the Chiefs has allowed him to visit several military bases in the area, recognize Gold Star families in Kansas City, and dedicate personal time to support “The Battle Within,” an organization that helps veterans and first responders with mental and behavioral health challenges.
For these reasons, Holthus was selected as the Chiefs’ 2024 “Salute to Service” nominee this month, in honor of his ongoing efforts to recognize those who protect our country.
“I was blown away,” said Holthus. “I got very emotional when I learned of getting the nomination just because I know what the award means and what it represents.”
Holthus’ family has strong military connections, with his father, brother, nephew, and sister-in-law all having served in the U.S. Army. His father, ElDean Holthus, was stationed in places from Texas to Alaska during his time in the military.
This military background instilled in Holthus a deep respect for the Armed Forces, and he continues to honor that commitment in his work with the Chiefs.
“I have so many friends that are dear to me who are either currently serving or have served, and that keeps me not only interested but feeling a responsibility to try to do something,” Holthus said. “I can use this role as the Voice of the Chiefs to not only tell a story, but to lift up those who serve our country, while hopefully inspiring others to serve.”
One of his most meaningful efforts has been with local veterans. Holthus has been a strong supporter of “The Battle Within,” an organization focused on helping military members deal with PTSD.
Holthus explained, “A lot of military folks deal with some of the real challenges presented by PTSD, and The Battle Within offers a very, very intense intervention program. It reminds me so much of the sacrifices made by the men and women who serve that we often take for granted.”
Holthus has also shown his commitment to military families through his work with the Fifth Engineer Battalion at Fort Leonard Wood. In 2008, he spoke to the battalion the night before their third deployment to Iraq. After their return, he helped the unit cope with an increase in suicides among members.
For Holthus, supporting military personnel is a way of life. His iconic voice and passion for the Chiefs are a big part of the team’s identity.
His actions and priorities reflect the Chiefs’ long-standing commitment to honoring the nation’s heroes, making him an ideal representative for the league’s “Salute to Service” mission.
“I feel like lifting up our military is part of the responsibility of what I do, and what we do as a franchise,” Holthus said. “People will pay attention to the Chiefs. They’ll pay attention if we prioritize something.”
