Her Boots

Typically the saying “Go Guard” is normally reserved for those moments shared where soldiers unite in eye rolling over certain situations that can’t be believed, or, can be believed but with much astonishment or disbelief. However, I am going to use it for something a little different today. This post will be a little different than those in the past – stick with me, I hope this inspires or nudges any of you that have been considering a life of service.

In January of 2009 I was about to make one of the biggest decisions I have ever made in my life. I was anxiously awaiting to be seen by a slew of military professionals and civilian doctors to see if I would be eligible to enter the Armed Forces. The decision by any means, was not an easy one. For anyone considering the military as a potential career, please do your research, and really consider what is being asked of you. Maybe this post will change your mind; in all honesty, I hope it changes your mind to say, “Yes! I want to serve.” 

After saying my oath with my right hand up to God, I felt so many things. Excitement, fear, sadness, uncertainty, happiness, pride, and honor. It was a hard decision for me to make, I had a son who was a little over a year old. That being said, I knew to give him the best life, I had to make the best life for me. I had college debt I was uncertain I would be able to pay off and I still needed to finish my degree. I knew it wouldn’t be an easy decision to leave my son for about 4 to 5 months, but it was the sacrifice I was willing to make to lay the ground work for a better future for both of us. I am so happy I did, and I say that proudly 13 years later.  

My sister and my brother decided to join the Navy right after High School and both of them seemed to be doing well. In the slightest bit of competitiveness, I knew that I wanted to be able to say I was in the Army, and the National Guard seemed more like a perfect fit because, aside from the mandated basic training, I wouldn’t be moved around from state to state. I could serve my community, my state, and the federal government. The perks of being in the National Guard should also not go unnoticed. To break this down, The National Guard protects their state, and at times the Federal government. After 20 years of service, we too, are awarded a retirement with healthcare benefits the same as the active component. For education purposes we are awarded federal tuition assistance (FTA), a provision of the GI Bill, and a $50,000 student loan repayment (SLRP). The added perk only for National Guard (Army Reserve is excluded) is that we have a state educational assistance program (EAP) and if you are lucky enough to reside in Pennsylvania, the Governor created a new educational program for military members and their family (MFEP). On top of all that juiciness, some career programs have enlistment bonuses and incentives to retain you upon completion of your first and remaining contracts. For someone living in poverty most of her life and not wanting that situation for my son, the decision was an “easy” one.  

Within my first contract I made the rank of Sergeant and this is where I feel as though I really started to grow and utilize all the military had to offer. My son had been a little older at this time and was fully into his mommy wearing military gear that he could wear as well. I tried to include him in any and all events to teach him why it was and still is so important to me. I volunteered for many trainings to become a better rounded soldier and have the ability to train and mentor those in my care. Within 7 years I made the rank of E6, a rank that many would wait decades for in the “old guard.” I embraced the challenges and continued to become even more diligent in my work. With all of that training I soon landed a position as a full-time military technician. This, my friends, is where my journey just took off. I, again dived into my work and was quick to be relied and called upon for “how-to” in my shop and across the state. I was able to travel to California and Europe to support a brigade size mission. I was so entrusted that a standard operating procedure I had wrote for our facility was then used for brigade’s lower enlisted logisticians. A couple years later I earned the rank of E-7. Now this is huge because only a select few make it to this level in their military career and it’s a position that can test your very leadership abilities. I had also completed two more degrees during this whole time, which only amplified my resume, knowledge, and desire to continue in this career field. Many may argue my point, but being a woman in the military can either make or break you. It is a male dominated career field and with many of the traditional responsibilities woman take, ie. Children, family, education, etc. it can be hard to give your time once a month and a couple weeks out of the year.  

To those women that are serving, I would encourage you to stick it out. If you are unable, your decision is one that many women who have served know doesn’t come easy, and that is okay. To all of you, your service does not go unnoticed along with your sacrifices.  

Being in the military has awarded me many opportunities to grow as a person, leader, and mentor. It has given me a collective group of individuals across the globe I consider close friends and my family. The experiences I have gone through has amplified my resume to bounds unattainable in what some would consider a small time. Opportunities presented to continue my education, management, and leadership potential in all of my experience in the civilian sector is also unmatched.

With any commitment in the Armed Forces, there are sacrifices one has to make. It doesn’t always come lightly, but with no risk there is no reward. The hard work you put in will only amplify your feeling of accomplishment and selfless service. Service isn’t for everyone, but for me, it has been everything. It has given me the tools to build new foundations, networks, and skill set.

My advice to anyone considering a career in the service, particularly women; challenge yourself, go for it, the qualities and experience you will gain will advance every attribute you already have. For anyone that has served, thank you for your service and commitment to those serving in boots.

Amanda

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