One of the most popular questions I received when I was in the military was why did you decide to join the Air Force? My answer always was kind of fuzzy and unclear. I could easily say 9/11 because even though I did not sign up till almost two years after that event I always look back to that day as a turning point. I could say, that it seemed like a good idea at the time.
Join the Air Force
I was in such a weird situation when I decided to join the Air Force. I had been running cross country and track at the community college I attend and ended up getting hurt and maybe just a little to burnt out to think about running again. My friends were interested in joining the military and my interest was peaked. Originally I was going to join the Air National Guard, but at lunch with one of my friends while the paperwork was still being sorted my friend told me that when he graduated in a few years I would have to salute him. Because I had no military background, I had no understanding of what he was saying. But his words had sparked an interest inside of me and I had to know more.
I had thought that if I joined the National Guard I would have a steady job and be able to go to school once all my training was complete and maybe that would have happened, but once I learned about the Reserve Officer Training Program (ROTC) I could not wait to join. For me, I would be able to test out my military ambitions and continue to progress in the schooling I was enjoying. There would be no drastic change and I could try out the program with no commitment required. I still had one year left at my community college so it was the perfect opportunity for me.
From the moment I joined ROTC there really was no looking back. I loved the program. It was there that I made friends quickly and started to learn about leadership and followership. There was order and I found a place where I felt like I belonged. In less than a year I met my future husband who is still currently serving. I had found my home.
My love for the Air Force is still there, but just like the giddy excitement of a new relationship wears off my excitement all things military is not there, but when I look back and think about what caused me to join the Air Force. It was the feeling of community I felt when I started ROTC. I had been lost and searching and had finally found my home.
That is why I decided to join the Air Force: The Air Force is my home.
See all my 31 Days…Military Life
Thank you for your service to our country! Love to read stories about looking back – and the wisdom that brings. It is interesting how we can be so passionate about different things at all seasons in our lives. God has an interesting way of making life interesting!
Yes he does!
Wow. Seriously wow. I salute YOU. I have such deep admiration for folks who join the military – and I’m so very grateful…
Thanks!
I love this photo and the idea of finding a “home” where you belong. Thank you for your service!
I didn’t realize how I focused in on finding a home. Since we just moved to California I’m still missing my home in Ohio. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
Thank you for your service! I love that you found your community when you joined the service. I think deep inside, that is what we all need. I’m so glad I found you on “5 for 5” today! Blessings to you!
Interesting to know how you made your decision. And if you hadn’t met Michael we’d never have met you. Have a great day.
I joined the Army because it was something to do. What I got was something I didn’t totally account for; a family. My battle buddies are still my friend over 10 years and they became my family. We celebrate major life events together as well. Thanks for serving our country and hats off to a great mom!
I can totally relate. I joined the Army just because and I found a family. We still keep in contact still and it’s been about 10 years for some. Thanks for serving our country. I hope you are enjoying your transition to mom.
I have met so many wonderful people while serving and am glad that I still get to be connected to the military through my husband.