My First Four Months In The Army
Abstract
At the age of 17, I was a very popular student in high school. At the end of my junior year, I made a decision: I was going to become a Soldier in the U.S. Army. Unfortunately, my family was not overly enthused about my plans. In particular, my father seemed the most bothered by my decision. Although my father is a very compassionate man, he does not readily show affection or get emotional over anything. However, when I signed up for the military on 23 JUL 85, I could see the worry in his eyes. My most vivid memory of that day is my father simply asking me over and over again Is this was what you really want? Even though my father was not fond of sports, I spent much of my time, both playing and competing. Somehow, sports gave me a sense of discipline and teamwork. By the age of 15, I obtained my first job at a restaurant called Roy Rogers. At 17 years of age, I began a second job at a wholesale warehouse called Makro. Working these two jobs for over two years, moving up in pay and position, gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment. Through my experiences with sports and work, I learned that hard work and motivation was the key to obtaining success in life. Thus, I was going to obtain my success in the military. Departing for basic training was both exciting and nerve-racking! I felt as if I was ready for anything. After saying our good-byes, I remember my mother walking into her bedroom. It was months later that I found out she spent at least an hour crying. She needed time, I suppose, to get over the thought that I was leaving home for good. Even as I walked out the door with the recruiter, my father portrayed the proud, stoic man I have known all my life. Upon arrival to basic training at Ft Jackson, SC on 1 JUL 86, I anxiously awaited the unavoidable barrage of fifty screaming drill sergeants.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- AD1111416
Entities
People
- Purcelle A. Harris
Organizations
- United States Army Sergeants Major Academy