The Best and the Proud

It was August 5, 2005, the day we all had been patiently waiting for. Our hard work was finally going to be rewarded by a gratifying applause on the Graduation Day. Standing on the stage and taking the final bow was the best achievement of my life. Through nine weeks of rigorous training, I had transformed from a civilian to a United States soldier. I had eventually earned the right to be called the defender of freedom and the American way of life. Never in my wildest dreams had I ever imagined of this remarkable day.

As a kid, I was prone to illness and skinnier than most of the kids of my age group. My physiology was definitely not cut out for a demanding job of a soldier. This may lead people to wonder what must have driven this dainty, delicate girl to embark such courageous task. As my junior year was coming to an end, I started exploring my options after High School and beyond only to find out that college expenses was beyond my reach. When I revealed this shocking news to my parents my dad, a humble store cashier retorted bluntly that I was on my own and that they did not have the monetary capacity to contribute to my education. Baffled and disappointed by his remark, I started hunting for a source to provide for my college expenses. On the quest of doing so, I bumped into a Texas Army National Guard Recruiter who introduced me to this larger than life organization. He told me that the Army is a key component of the U.S. Armed Forces, providing expeditionary land forces wherever—and whenever—they are required. And that I could contribute when called upon to serve our country and at the came time get my education paid for. This was just what I needed; an opportunity to defend my country and go to college. But this was no ordinary club. Little did I know this would be the most daunting and life changing experience of my life. My parents have always morally supported me because of my zeal to aspire towards a career, look forward to graduation and beyond...