On this day, we honor all current and former members of the Armed Services. Our country’s greatness is built on the foundation of your courage and sacrifice. Thank you!
As a Veteran, it’s sometimes hard for me to understand the impact of our service that so many of us have had on our peers, family members, and friends. When I think back to my time in the Navy, I guess I really don’t see it as me serving my country, I mean obviously, that’s what I was doing, but in all actuality, the main reason I joined the service was that I needed money for college and my friends were out being shit heads and I knew I was going to end up being a shit head if I didn’t leave and get out of the area and friend group I was in.
Even after 9/11 happened, I wasn’t scared to go into the military. I think back now, 20 years later, and realize what a HUGE decision that was to make at 18 years old. I was FRESH out of high school, had no direction, my friends were doing drugs and getting into all kinds of shit that I didn’t really want to be a part of and I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I felt that I need and wanted and COULD do more if I got out of Okolona and could figure out a way to get into college. Then one random afternoon I was sitting on my couch and a United States Navy commercial came on and of course, I was intrigued. I no shit called a recruiter that very minute, without talking to my mom, without discussing it with any of my friends or family. I called him up and I said hey, what can you tell me about joining the United States Navy.
A few days later, he was at my door. My mom of course was a little less than thrilled at the time of course. He talked to me about the benefits, a sign-on bonus, and that I could get a home duty station of Virginia written into my contract so I could be closer to home if I wished. All of this sounded good to me, especially the part where I would get my college paid for when I got out. So I signed up and before you know it I had a MEPS date of October 15, 2002. That was the date I shipped out to begin my journey.
I spent 4 1/2 years in the Navy, travelled the east coast, I’ve been to Malta, Spain, Dubai, Greece, Crete, Rome, Italy and probably a few other countries I’m forgetting. I met so many amazing people along my journey and I’m incredibly thankful to my spontaneous 18-year-old self for making that call to talk to a recruiter.
There were definitely hard times but I’ve also seen a lot more of the world than probably a lot of people my age. I have stories for days and I’m sure to tell some of them here someday but today I just wanted to extend a Happy Veterans Day to all my fellow Vets. I hope you enjoy your day, enjoy a free meal somewhere and be thankful that we’re still here to celebrate with our families.
