• Wrestler to Cadet

  October 4, 2010

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  Tags:  

  cadet   scholarship   CULP   air   rotc   training  

  When I first came to college, I never had a thought about going into the army. I had the mindset that wrestling was going to be my main concern for the next four years. I was recruited to a NCAA Division II team in my home town, this seemed like a good opportunity. During my first couple months of wrestling I saw that collegiate wrestling was not something that I wanted to do. It soon became not a sport, but a full time job, continuing through my freshman year I was unsure about my future. No wrestling, no money, simple as that.
  One night while working on a school project, I was talking with a friend who told me that he was going to join ROTC. I was shocked, he was a very intelligent guy who had a lot going to him in the civilian world after he graduated. I was curious about his decision, so I asked him many questions about it. After we were done talking, I wanted more information about it, it sounded so interesting. After talking with a few recruiters, I decided that I wanted to do it. Scholarships were becoming more and more scarce but it wasn't about the money as much as the opportunity. Luckily, there was a scholarship available and I was able to contract. Now that I jumped in head first, I love it and I'm never looking back.
  During my sophomore year I was given an opportunity that was new and exciting. An email came through that asked if anyone wanted to compete in the US Army Small Arms Competition at Fort Benning, GA. My friend and I who are both experienced marksman decided that we wanted to go and give it a shot, pardon the pun . After the 14 hour drive it was time for our experience to start. We saw many Special Forces, Ranger, President's 100, and Sapper tabs around us, which are intimidating when you are just a cadet. During the competition we were able to stay very competitive and did very well. The different weapons that we used were M9s, M16s, M24s and AK-47s. This experience was very unique and our cadre are coordinating our return for this year.
  Since I have contracted I have done so many things that I would have not been able to do if I was not in ROTC. This past summer I went on a trip to Russia through the Army Cultural Understanding and Language Proficiency (CULP) program. This was such a unique experience. I took a year of Russian in college so I was able to use my knowledge in Russia. While I was in Russia I worked at an orphanage and for three and a half weeks I made a difference in so many kids lives. The overseas experience, cultural immersion and service I provided was really a great experience and will someday make me a better person and soldier.
  When I got back from Russia, another opportunity presented itself very abruptly. The day after I arrived back home I was on the phone with my Professor of Military Science (PMS) and he asked if I would like to go to Air Assault School, and of course without hesitation I said, “Yes.” Who would have thought a year ago that I would be rappelling and fast roping out of a helicopter? At Air Assault I learned many different aspects about helicopter operations, including sling loading, troop movement, troop insertion and general facts about many helicopters. The Air Assault class that I was in was mainly made up of active duty soldiers. It was a very good opportunity to train with other soldiers and acquire a skill that I can take with me after I get down range.
  Looking back now and seeing where I am, what I have done, and where I am headed, it’s hard to believe that I almost passed up this opportunity.

   

  submitted by Cadet Timothy McAndrew on Oct 4 2010

Comments

• Snip

  Oct 6, 2010 8:54 AM

  Congrats Tim on your experiences and decision to become a cadet, the Army will be good for you and you certainly will be an asset to the service and your country. Thanks

  
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• Mrs. P

  Oct 6, 2010 2:58 PM

  HI, Tim! I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished already in your life. I knew when you were ten that you were going to do great things. Look at you now! And, I must say that your article is very well written...you must have had some great teachers along the way. Keep me posted on your adventures, and make good choices - be safe!

  
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• Miss B

  Oct 7, 2010 11:08 AM

  This story can motivate anyone. Congratulations on all your accomplishments and keep up the hard work and dedication. You have had some amazing experiences that will stay with you forever. Your CULP mission with the orphanage was very touching. Thank you for sharing and good luck in your military career. Thank you for serving and GOD BLESS!

  
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