LETTER: ROTC worth every minute

I really didn’t know anything about the Army. I was able to look into the ROTC program throughout the semester without incurring any commitment and without being pressured by anyone. At the end of the semester, after talking much with my wife, I decided to sign up and also join the National Guard in the meantime.

I felt that it would be good for me; I wanted to grow as a person so that I could be a better husband and father. I’m very satisfied with what I’ve gained personally, and I know that many other people stand to gain something from it, too, if they’re willing to put forth some effort. I’ve been in great physical shape, learned much about leadership and responsibility, made some good friends, become more mature, and gotten some cash that’s been quite helpful. It’s not all roses, of course, but it’s been well worth doing, and I’d be happy to answer anyone’s questions about my experiences (good and bad) in either the ROTC or the National Guard.

Also, there are currently a number of students who are signed up for ROTC classes to learn a bit about the Army and see if it’s something that will be good for them (like I did two years ago). Everyone else should feel free to do the same, or even just visit one of the classes or labs to investigate.

I hope that what has been good for me can be good for others, too.