Happy Veterans Weekend!!

When I was a high school I had dreams of going to college. I was in the Pennsylvania Upward Bound program.  When I was a senior I applied and got accepted to Lock Haven university. I was so hype because I was going to be roommates with my bestie Querida. Reality hit there was so college savings and I couldn’t afford to go to college.  I was 17 working at Kmart as a cashier looking at my coworkers in their 50s. Most that had been working at Kmart for years only and not in a management position. I thought this can’t be life. So my other bestie (I had 4 besties) Keema was joining the Army and I went to the recruiter with her. I told SSG Farrar (Who is a 1SG now) I wanted to join the Army. He laughed at me because my push-ups were trash and I ran slowly. He did actually work me on my push ups and run.

July 25^th, 2001 I made the best decision of my life. While my friends were enjoying their summer I was on my way to boot camp. I was hella scared. I knew I had to get through it because there were a lot of people that did not think I would make it. Their negative comments fueled me to prove them wrong. I did six years in the Army and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Being a 92Y (Supply) helped me in the civilian world tremendously. I have been a Logistician for over 10 years. I love this career field. Its so much room for advancement especially living in the DMV.

Fort Campbell Kentucky was my 1st duty station. I was prepared for the craziness. One I was so lost on the base was split between Tennessee and Kentucky lol. Some of the people from AIT were stationed there too so it was good to know people. My first friend I was made was a guy named Auzenne. We are still close to this day he is a riot. I was excited to meet people from all walks of life. There is so much diversity in the Military. Living in the south was so crazy to me. Gold teeth everywhere and southern slurs and slang. I freaking loved it lol.

My brothers and I all served. My big bro did 10 years in the Navy and the rest he is doing in the Army reserves. My lil bro and I was both active duty Army. You would think our parents were Military yeah they weren’t lol.

For me the best part of the Military were my battle buddies. You meet people and bound with them. You know that no matter what happens you will have each others back. You are there for each other during the good and bad times.  I asked my friends to send me a picture in uniform so I could share it. Some are out and some are still serving. They all have sacrificed their time (sometimes up to a year not seeing their family) and many times their lives for your freedom, not to mention the hardship in their daily lives while serving. They have more courage than most Americans who stay home.

My Hometown Friends

We grew up together so I don’t call any of them by their last name lol

 

 My Fort Campbell Battles

I still call my Military friends by their last name. Some habits are hard to break.

 

 My Fort Benning Battles

 

After the Military

I never stop meeting wonderful Vets

 Thank you all for your service!!