A Significant Life Experience

Introduction

Numerous events and experiences have contributed to the development of my personal and professional knowledge, skills and abilities through the course of my life. However, I consider my experience with the US Army to be the most life-changing for me. In this brief discussion, I will highlight the manner in which my experiences with the US Army have changed my life for the better.

Discussion

I became a part of the US Army in 1982 when I was assigned to Fort Jackson in South Carolina for basic training. My first emotion was a combination of confusion, amazement, awe and excitement as I was hit with an expected yet under-estimated culture shock. Military life was far more strict and regulated than I expected, and it soon became apparent to me that I would have to change my approach to everyday life if I was to perform adequately in the Army. I was quick to learn that the Army had standards that were unforgiving in the field if they were compromised.

Fortunately, I was able to remain equally swift in the acquisition and development of the necessary competencies. Experiences such as training for the use of firearms (both small and heavy), had a strong influence on me as I realized the responsibilities that my position entailed. I consider it imperative to highlight that I was required to lose 65 pounds in order to come down to Army acceptable levels. These experiences came together to form the variables that began to shape me into a new individual with a reinvigorated and proactive approach to life.

My experience with the US Army continued when I was assigned to Advance Initial Training for a position as the 63B Light Wheel Vehicle Mechanic. My skills were tested on a daily basis as I strived to come out ...