I continue to serve my country for the following reasons; provide a better lifestyle for myself and the cultural experiences, educational benefits, and the opportunity to give back to my country. The military has provided me opportunities beyond my expectation as an Army Officer.

     The Army provides me a better lifestyle and cultural experience than I had growing up. The military provides me an opportunity to broaden my experience beyond boundaries that I could ever imagine. I gained experience in leadership and logistics that will be very marketable in the private sector when I leave the military. The military teaches discipline and determination and the cultural experience is very rewarding. I have travel from Asia to Europe and visited countries such as; Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, Korea, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Greece, and Turkey. The cultural experience I gained from these countries is extraordinary and unmatched in comparison to a University’s classroom lectures on these countries.

     I am impressed with the educational benefits the military provides for Soldiers. I grew up from a very poor family and knew a good education would provide me opportunities my parents did not have. During my freshman year in college I realized the way to a free education would be through the military and the Elizabeth City State University ROTC program. I applied for a scholarship and was awarded a scholarship from the Army National Guard in North Carolina. I graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1998 and continued my military career on active duty. I was able to earn a free master’s degree due to the military’s tuition assistance program.

     My last reason for serving my country is probably the most rewarding. The military provides me an opportunity to give back to my country and help people less fortunate all over the world. I can never repay my country for the opportunities it provides for me in comparison to other countries. My career and way of life was not decided for me at an early stage in my life due to premature testing like some countries. I can become whatever I decide to become with determination and dedication. I am able to feel safe at night knowing that our cities have strong police forces across the country and we have the best military force in the world. United States value human rights for all people regardless of race, religion or ethnic background. During my military career I have been given the opportunity to help through humanitarian assistance and provide donations to a worthy cause. These efforts allowed me to interact with the children of these countries and issue school supplies. Every year I donate money to a worthy cause through the Combined Federal Campaign. Combined Federal Campaign donations support organizations of my choice.

      In conclusion, serving my country has been more rewarding than I imagined. I continue to serve my country because I enjoy what I do and the opportunities my country provides me. My cultural knowledge and way of thinking has broadened due to the cultural experiences abroad in Asia and Europe. I earned a free Bachelor of Science and Masters Degree through the military. Without their educational opportunities these degrees would be nonexistent or I would be in financial debt as result of taking student loans. Giving back to my country and helping others is the most rewarding thing I can do as a military officer. I have the choice to serve in an all-volunteer force during a crucial time in our country’s history. I have impacted lives across the world. The decisions I make will impact us now and our next generation. Joining the United States Army and staying the course during a difficult time is the most rewarding way to serve my country!!

Army Strong!!

“The views expressed in this Blog are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.”