Kimberly Marks

My name is Kimberly Marks - most of my family and friends call me Kimmy. My two beautiful children call me Mommy :) I was in high school many years ago when I decided I wanted to join the military. Both of my Grandfathers were in the Army, and the man that raised me as my father was in the Army. It wasn't even worth a second thought when I hopped into Army JROTC as my extra credit class! Oddly enough, life often changes your mind for you...

I was a sophomore in High School when I met my husband. You change your mind, rethink possibilities, and let things go for whatever reasons. I instead got right out of school, was married 2 months later, shortly after that I was blessed with my first child, My son- A few years later I was blessed once more with my daughter. Shortly thereafter I felt at a standstill in my life. Things were happening and I was feeling like the world was crashing down around me. The only thing I would allow myself to do was stand my ground. This would be ensuring that my two children were always safe. No matter what the sacrifice.

Now, I'm almost 30 years old with two beautiful children and I'm coming back to the road I remember back in high school. At my age, I'm pulling 48 pushups in 2 min, 72 sit-ups, and my 2 mile run is finally within the time limit to pass! My son and daughter often cheer me on and remind me what I'm fighting for - Granted I'm fighting for my country and for honor, but to me, my children are my country and my honor. They keep me fighting through this, even when I start to think "I don't know if I can." They remind me "But, Mommy you can't quit! You say so every morning! 'Never accept defeat, Never Quit' " - Even at my age, Amazing things are possible! HOOAH!!!!! 68A (Biomedical Equipment Specialist)

Tone Eberhart

Hello. My name is Tone' Eberhart. Every since I was a child, I grew up with only stories about my grandfather who served and died fighting in the Vietnam War. The stories of his legacy were like music to my ears. It sparked an interest and I had always wanted to join and follow in his footsteps; but there was only one problem. I was horribly obese.

I was always the fattest guy of my class. As I got older, more reasons became apparent in my life as to why I wanted to join the Army. Some included wanting to help keep the greatest country on earth safe; and to make myself a part of something bigger than myself; to give back to this country that has nurtured me since birth. However, there was still that one issue. I weighed WAY TOO MUCH to qualify for the Army. When I finally went to see a recruiter he told me to lose a certain amount of weight and to come back and see him. Honestly I thought to myself that he probably didn't take me seriously since I was an amazing 320 POUNDS!!!

What he didn't know was that I was a HIGHLY MOTIVATED and DEDICATED INDIVIDUAL...I was told to only lose "SOME" weight, but I never really accepted the bare minimum. I ended up losing over 80 pounds and totally transformed my image. I did it without buying gym memberships, weight pills or anything that could offer an easy outlet. ONLY HARD WORK PAYS OFF. After that was complete I proudly signed my contract with a sense of accomplishment and an attitude that I was truly ARMY STRONG. My MOS is 35N (Signal Intelligence Analyst). I'm headed out pretty soon and I believe if I can do it then NOTHING CAN STOP ME...HOOAH!

Shane Southard

My name is Shane Southard. I enlisted into the United States Army for multiple reasons. The first, I wanted to be a part of something bigger than Myself. Secondly, we all remember where we were when 9/11 happened, and at that time I was just in 3rd grade. I didn't understand terrorism and what truly had happened on that day eleven years ago; but I remember fourth grade. We had this memorial at my school and we all took part in burning the flag. The event changed who I was. I wanted to be a soldier and fight for freedom. That day I came home saying one day I would join the Army and I did!!!

The last reason I joined was for the educational benefits. In the future I see myself going into a full time Ministry. A degree in Theology isn't cheap and so I am going to use the financial resources from the Army to one day accomplish my other Dream of being a church planter.

I enlisted December 2011 and since that time, I have been physically and mentally preparing myself for what the Army requires throughout basic training and daily life. Also, since that time I have been doing my future solider training tests. I leave in a month and I know I am ready for this new chapter of my life. My MOS is 68W (Healthcare Specialist). I went through EMT/fire school last year so AIT will be a breeze.

Alex Pacific

Hi my name is Alex Pacific. My MOS is 19K (M1 ABRAMS ARMOR CREWMAN). My story starts roughly about a year ago I began to talk to my local recruiters about the Army. The thought spurred from my brother who is in the Army Reserves. Before this process however, I was lazy and unmotivated. For example, I stayed up till around 2:00 A.M. every morning playing online games with friends, listening to loud music, dodging homework assignments, and arguing with my parents. I never got out of the house or did anything physical. Also I did not have any plan for what I wanted to do after I got out of high school.
The road I was taking was hazardous to my success, and at the time I still didn't care. I was a 14-month senior, and I was in panic mode trying to figure out what I was going to do with my life. My brother came to talk to me about possibly joining the military. I had told him that it wasn't the thing for me. I had no physical strength whatsoever and that I had little work ethic. With his persistence he convinced me to talk with a recruiter.
I wanted to join as a reservist after the talk. I was concerned about what could happen if I went active; and I didn't want to commit myself to anything major beyond the point of being a Reservist. After a few talks with the recruiters I began thinking about what I was getting myself into, and possibly all I could do in the future. I decided to join Active Duty because there isn't anything here for me as a civilian.

Since August, I have been hell bent on being the best I can be. I have never worked so hard in my life to forge myself into something I wasn't just one year ago. The second Future Soldier training I went to was a APFT. I decided to go for it to see where I stood. It didn't go so well. I didn't pass any of the events, and the closest I got was halfway meeting the sit-ups requirement. This was a wakeup call. I worked hard after that test and when the next one came around I managed to pass 2/3 of the events. My pushups were off by approximately 10. Going for the next APFT, I passed it. Looking at the APFT as of now, I'm just trying to max it and I'm getting pretty close.

That was just physical part. I'm still in high school and I'm passing all my courses. I'm good to graduate and all, but I haven't put nearly as much effort into school as I have learning what is expected of me as a soldier going into basic training. Now I can safely say that I know all of the ranks and alphabet. The general orders are a breeze. I know The Soldiers Creed by heart. Land navigation is really fun to do. Drill & Ceremony and Marching is fun to practice. Battle Drills are amazing, though we've only had one session of that, and wedge formation. I still know every bit that was taught to me.

Overall, the Army has changed this lazy, good for nothing kid into someone who now has absolute motivation. I cannot think of another choice that would have benefited me as much as this choice. I can't wait to leave in July. Hooah!

Future Soldier Erica Garbers

Hello, my name is Erica Garbers. I am 19 years old. Towards the end of January this year, I enlisted as a 91D (Power Generation Equipment Repairer). I am very excited to be leaving for basic combat training in June. I joined the Army in order to become more independent; and also prove to myself that I can do anything I set my mind to.

After being stuck in a small town in central Indiana all of my life I decided I needed a change. Growing up, I was an honor student and always thought that college would be where I would thrive. Within my first semester I decided that even though I enjoyed the challenges college brought, it wasn't a place I truly wanted to be. The second I stepped into the recruiting office I felt as though the pressure of the world was lifted off my shoulders and that this was where I was meant to be. I have already noticed a change within myself after signing my contract.

So far, my process has been both nerve wracking and exciting. I have already met some amazing people along the way and can hardly wait to be part of the Army family. Physically and mentally to prepare myself for BCT I have been working out regularly, as well as learning the Soldiers creed and the general orders (I finally memorized them both!) I am very proud to become an American Soldier. Hooah!

Hi my name is Daniel Silva and I’m a Cav Scout (19D). Joining the Army was something I have wanted a long time for myself. I wanted to serve my country and provide better opportunities for my future.

During my time as a Future Soldier, I experienced a lot of hurry up and wait. In my process for enlistment I had a lot of going back and forth.

I loved doing PT at the station with Recruiters and the other Future Soldiers. Physically I prepared myself with personal pt, with p90x and working at the recruiting station once a week. The last thing I wanted to do as a civilian was to spend time with as many friends and family as possible. The hardest part of saying goodbye was saying goodbye to my son.

 I was nervous and excited to begin the next chapter in my life. Leaving later in the year, I was excited that I knew I would have the opportunity to come home over Christmas break for Block Leave/Exodus. I couldn’t wait to ship and I would look at all kinds of information about my job and what to expect. I spent a lot of time on YouTube watching all the videos about my job. I spoke with buddies of mine that went to BCT and got some pointers, too. I remember thinking about being in front of Drill Sergeants and that was intimidating. I didn’t want to mess up and I wanted to stay off the “radar.”

We had the Shark Attack and that was alright. Things are cool now with our squad and the Drill Sergeants. They were intimidating, but they taught us valuable information, and are now more relaxed.

I think red phase was the worst. It was a large squad with a large amount of people wanting to do things differently. The most challenging part of red phase was learning to work together and getting smoked when some people couldn’t follow orders or messed up. I love getting letters from family and friends, and now that our squad recently graduated from the BCT (part of the OSUT) we’ve got a few privileges. I can use my phone to call family and friends and hear about my son. We were warned that we can lose these privileges though.

Another hard part of BCT is following orders on missions where new leadership is appointed. Things are done differently than you are used to, or the way things were previously done. Just listen to the direction instructed onto your leaders from the Drill Sergeants. Stay positive and stay motivated. Stay connected with friends and family and the time will fly by. It’s always encouraging to receive letters and pictures - so stay in touch with friends and family.

Future Soldier Josh Cochran

Josh Cochran a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

I had a fun, young, and short childhood with my older sister, Jessica LeeAnn Cochran-McCray. My parents divorced, then we moved to Spicewood, Texas, which is now my hometown. As a young kid I was always active, running, biking, playing around, and just exploring the woods around the nice country area of Spicewood until about 5th grade.

In middle school, I started to become lazy and hated my life, my family, everyone and just didn't want to do anything about anything. I would stay home all the time or go to a friend's to play video games, and we'd just play, eat, and sleep. This made years go by faster than they should've, I think.

By the beginning of my Junior year of High School, I was nearly 300 pounds, mainly fat, weighing in at 280 pounds. Two weeks into my Junior year, I wanted to play football, so I talked to the head coach and finally got to join. I was in football for about four to five months, I ran, weight-lifted, and exercised like I never did before. I probably lost about 20 pounds of fat from just being in football.

After football, I left Marble Falls High School, and finished up my High School Credits at Falls Career High School from Jan 31, 2011 to Dec 16, 2011. To be honest, if it wasn't for the joining football, I wouldn't have enlisted. I would probably still be obese and probably wouldn't be as active or in shape as I am now.

I love to and hope to inspire kids, women, men, and anyone who needs it, to be the best they can be, to make a change, to be healthy, and to not let their lazy habits ruin their happiness in life.

I have always wanted to be a Military man, an American Soldier, a Guardian of freedom and the American way of life! Hooah! I hope to be the best I can be, physically and mentally, no matter what troubles or obstacles fill my path.
I will stay fit, mentally and physically strong, improving myself until I can't, then breaking through the plateau to improve some more!

I am an American Soldier! Hooah!
- PVT Cochran

Future Soldier Alex Buckley

Alex Buckley a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hello Future Soldiers, my name is Alex Buckley and I would like to take this opportunity to tell you about my decision to enlist in the United States Army. At 28 years old, I am a little older than most people who enter the Army. The thought of serving in the military started at a young age for me. On my mother’s side, my grandfather served as an officer in the Marine Corps and my grandfather from my father’s family served in the Army during World War II. In addition, many of my other relatives served in the military. Instead of enlisting in the military after graduating high school in Fairfax, VA in 2002, I decided to move to Germany for a year as an exchange student. After returning back to the states in 2003, I enrolled in a community college where I struggled to complete my Associate’s Degree. I finally completed my two year degree in 2007 and transferred to Schiller International University in Heidelberg Germany. In Heidelberg there was a large American military presence so many of my friends were either veterans of the Army or had parents serving in the Army. It was during my time at university where I became more interested in joining the Army.

In 2009 I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and returned back to Virginia. Similar to many graduates, I had a difficult time trying to find employment relevant to my degree. I was interested in pursuing a career in the intelligence community since I lived in the Washington DC metropolitan area. Unfortunately, the majority of the agencies I applied to required previous experience or higher education. Eventually I had to accept a position in retail as a sales associate. For almost two years I worked as a sales associate and despite a few interviews with different agencies, I was still working in retail. After seeing the changes occurring inside of the company I worked for, I decided to leave for personal reasons and concentrate on finding a career which I was passionate about. In early July, I spoke with a recruiter for the Army. After I told him my weight, he asked that I come into the recruiting station for a body mass index before we discussed career opportunities. I was surprised to learn that I was 258 pounds and had a body mass of 30%. My recruiter explained to me that for my age group the maximum body fat percentage was a strict 26%. At first I felt discouraged, but my disappointment quickly turned into motivation. For two months I worked out every day at a boxing gym and made changes to my diet. All of the recruiters kept encouraging me to stay focused and never quit.

In September, my determination paid off and I reached 26% body fat. I was then handed to another recruiter in the same office who handled all of my paper work for MEPS and helped me find my MOS. Since my intentions were to make a career in the Army, my recruiter stressed the importance of choosing an MOS I felt comfortable with. The day I left for MEPS, my recruiter was waiting for me in the parking lot and insisted I go inside immediately. The MOS which I had my heart set on, 35F Intelligence Analyst came into the system literally minutes before I had to leave for MEPS. Since September, I have been in the delayed entry program and will ship out to basic training in March at Fort Jackson. Currently, I am 217 pounds and have a body mass of 20%. I still exercise on a regular basis and am very careful about what I eat. I hope to score well on Army Physical Fitness Test to improve my chances to make a possible career in the Army. I hope to use my experience to inspire other future Soldiers who are considering enlisting in the Army at an older age as well. It is never too late to make a change in yourself or start your career. I am very excited to begin my new journey and look forward to all of the new challenges and opportunities I will be faced with!

Future Soldier Krista Grove

Grove, Krista a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

My story begins 3 years ago when I was only 17 years old. I always knew I wanted to join the military, and more importantly the ARMY, HOOAH! I was 17 years old when I first enlisted to serve this country! I was scheduled to ship out to BCT at Fort Jackson September 24, 2008. Unfortunately, that was not the case because something came up unexpectedly. A week before I was supposed to report to BCT I found out that I was 8 weeks pregnant! I was so scared and had no idea what to do. I ignored my recruiter for 2 days until he came to my house and I finally told him what was going on. Thankfully I was discharged on a good note, and that is what brings me here today! I am now 20 years old, have a 2 year old son, Champ, and was able to obtain my associates degree in the 3 years I was not able to be in. I am finally shipping out to basic as PFC Grove the end of February 2012. It cannot come fast enough. I am ready to become all that I can be in the United States Army and have my dreams of becoming an Officer and making the Army a career.

Future Soldier Denise Walker

Walker, Denise a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hi, well I am Denise Walker; I am a Future Soldier (HOOAH). I am 18 years old and was born in a life nobody would ask for. I can say where I come from, I wouldn't be where I am today if I didn't have a goal. My goal has always been the Military. When 09-11-01 took place I was 7 years old and I was so hurt to see innocent lives, to see kids my age, infants, toddlers, teenagers, adults, senior citizens, and government officials killed. I started asking different people about the Military and they would say to go to the Navy or Airforce. At the age of 12, my adopted mom passed away. I knew right then and there that I was all alone, no family, no nothing, and needed a career that could be beneficial to my future family.

I went on one of my relatives' computer and typed in US Female Marines and saw how low of a percentage were Marines and how they were the best. Then I typed the US Army and saw all of these jobs and programs and saw a video of a female Soldier, who was in foster care and I was like if she can be in the Army, then I can. I was set on my decision; my foster home was down the street from Paramount High School and I was in Army JROTC and wore the Class A Uniform with pride, but when I wore the ACU, I felt a sense of courage I have never felt before. On October 12, 2011 at 4:30 p.m myself and other Future Soldiers were called in to swear in. As I raised my right hand and said: I, Denise Walker, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of the Military Justice, So help me God.

I said those words with no regrets, no fear, nothing other than faith and hope to a better future. The Army is it for me there's no turning back . And now with me being an Army soldier, there is no sense of fear or doubt, this was the best decision I could have made!

Future Soldier Jesse Shelley

Shelley, Jesse a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hello! I am writing this for my husband, because he is so humble I know he won't write one. My husband is a Future Soldier, and I think he deserves to be featured on this blog. He wanted to join the military right out of high school, but never did. Now at 24 years of age, and three little girls later his job provides mostly what we need, but we struggle. My husband decided he was going to join the Army to provide better for the family. When he decided to join we couldn't get a hold of the recruiters here, in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, because they were out of the office for the weekend. We called to different cities to find out if he could even join the military, but because of having three children, he was told no several times.

Never giving up, finally Monday morning we reached a recruiter in the home office, and we were given some hope when he was told yes they will probably accept him, but he will need a waiver. We found out at this time that waivers were hard to get, but God opened doors, and after a long process he received his waiver, and will leave for basic training in a month. I am proud of my husband for following through with his dream even though it is a few years later, and also for standing up, and taking care of his family, and never giving up. He has been so dedicated to his PT, and has been making massive improvement. He started at not even being able to run a mile, since he never ran before, now he is up to 4 and a half!! I am proud of my husband, and Future Soldier!

Private Jesse Shelley
MOS: Horizontal Construction Engineer 12N
Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Future Soldier Cynthia Escalera

Escalera, Cynthia a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

My name is Cynthia Escalera. I'm 20 years old and I'm a Future Soldier in the United States Army. It's not easy to decide to join any branch of the military. It takes strength to even take that step. But I woke up one day realizing I had no direction, no money, and no will to continue living. I used to be such a vibrant individual. And just like many of you, I thought I had all of the time in the world to become an adult. Yet there I was, in debt and with no idea where I would live.

My friend had just come back home from Air Force boot camp and she seemed so happy. I wanted to be that happy again. So I started talking to recruiters from every branch. But the Army stood out. They cared about what I wanted and knew what it would take to get me there. I wasn't just a number to them. I was a Future Soldier...a young woman who could carry on serving the country when it was my turn.
It was all a blur. Between meeting the recruiters and MEPS to even swearing in (which was the proudest day of my existence). Now I'm just waiting to ship out to Ft. Leonard Wood, MO in February.

I'm trying to enjoy my civilian life while I'm still here but I'm just getting into the balance of preparing for Basic Training as well. I've already made friends who will train with me and I feel like a family already. The Army has given me security and I would whole-heartily give any individual a thumbs-up if they joined as well. Joining the Army was the best decision I ever made for myself. I can finally be proud of myself.

Pvt. Escalera
42A Future Soldier
US Army

Future Soldier Alberto Feliciano

Feliciano, Alberto a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hi my name is Alberto L. Feliciano and I’m very proud to say I’m a Future Soldier. My story began when I saw my father put on his uniform and work in something he loved. My father was an Airborne Ranger. I always wanted to be a Soldier and at the age of 16 I quit playing baseball to become a Civil Air Patrol Cadet. When I started my senior year of high school I talked with my father about enlistment and his said, “If you want to enlist go for it, but only when you finish college.’’

Some months later he went to Iraq. On Jan 13, 2006 my mom received the call you never want to receive - my father was hit by two cars bombs and was in a plane to Germany for treatment in Ramstein AB. I forgot all about wanting to enlist and decided to go to college.

In my third year of college, I saw a table with cadets of the Air Force ROTC and started thinking and decided that I really wanted to be a Soldier so I talked with a TSgt and his said, ‘’You are too fat for the program.’’ I was over 250 lbs at that time so the TSgt said when you drop that weight to 185 lbs come and meet with me. Six months later I went to the TSgt office and he weighed me and didn’t believe that I dropped my weight to 184 lbs. I signed the initial contract and started the next semester. My plan was to finish my last two years of my bachelor’s and the other two years for my master’s.

Almost one year later the Air Force had some cuts of personnel and one day the Commander said AFROTC have 5,100 cadets and only needs 2,500 so all the cadets with plans to do a master’s have one choice: to extend the bachelor’s degree or go to Army ROTC; so, at this time I was only at 9 classes to finish. Obviously my time in AFROTC was done.

I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree and enlist in the Army. One month after my graduation (my bachelor’s degree is in computers and network). I met my recruiter and the rest is history. I chose to follow the steps of my father and enlist in the Army. Some people doubt me and tell me I can’t be a Soldier, but after some hard work and motivation I’m now waiting for my day to ship to BCT. If you want something just do it HOOAH!!!

SPC Feliciano

Future Soldier Kelsey Evan

Evan, Kelsey a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hi my name is Kelsey Evans and this is my journey to enlistment. I went to college in the fall of 2005 knowing what I wanted to do. I wanted to become a Photojournalist and play lacrosse in college. I think at some point during my junior year of college, when I was finally taking actual photojournalism classes, I realized that I didn’t really have the passion for it that I thought I would. So instead of wasting more money and switching majors I stuck it out, finished my lacrosse career, which was my real passion and got my degree.

When I graduated college I also thought I knew what I wanted to do and became a part-time college lacrosse coach and worked full-time in retail to supplement my income. I did love coaching those girls, but the office work side of it was not for me. All I knew was that I loved being part of a team, I loved working hard and being hands on with my job.

It had been 1 ½ years since I was a college lacrosse goalie so I was out of shape. I decided in January of this year to start doing Crossfit. I headed to my local box (their term for gym) and took beginner’s classes for a month until I was able to do the real classes. I spent that time around ex-military and current military personnel who loved the Armed Forces and their jobs. I got the opportunity to work out with them and get to know them and it really shifted my perspective on what I wanted to do with my life.

On February 28th of this year I walked into a recruiter’s office and told him I wanted to join the Army and go to OCS and so began the LONG journey of me joining the Army. I had to lose weight so I continued doing Crossfit and started running and started doing the Paleo diet strictly. I lost 9 pounds of fat in about 3 months and went to MEPS on May 18th and 19th for my ASVAB and medical exam. Unfortunately for me the Officer Review Board (interview before three officers) was canceled in June. I had to wait until mid-July. I was nervous out of my mind for the hours they had us waiting to go before the board, which is funny now because it went so well and it was pretty laid back and kind of fun. All three of the officers highly recommended me as an Officer Candidate, which means that I could become a Reserve Officer Candidate if I wanted. I wanted active so they sent all my paperwork and their recommendations to the Paper Review Board. They took 31 of 85 candidates that month I believe. I wasn’t accepted as an Active Duty Officer Candidate.

I already knew that I wanted active more than I wanted officer and had plenty of time leading up to this day to make my decision. The day I got turned down I went to my recruiter’s office in late July and picked my MOS of 35M Human Intelligence Collector. On August 4th I FINALLY enlisted in the Army. I got what I wanted and the 7-month wait in the DEP began. I’ve decided since then that I want to try to become a HUMINT Warrant Officer anyways knowing how I love hands on work.

I went from not being able to do one military pushup in March to being able to do 50 in 2 minutes by May. I went from not being able to do more than 30 sit-ups without being exhausted and completely slowing down to doing 76 in 2 minutes now. And my running…When I was a freshman in high school and decided to play lacrosse I couldn’t jog a lap around the track because of exhaustion and lack of mental toughness. By my senior year of high school I could run a mile in 8:04. I now run a mile in 7:26 and my 2 miles is 16:05.

If you want something and are willing to work for it, you will get it. There is no question. It just may take a long time. Next step is Basic Training in February. I know it will be hard, but I’ll handle that too. I can’t wait to be SPC Evans.

Future Soldier John DeLima

DeLima, John a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

School just wasn't for me. I wanted to work- I had no problem clocking in, doing my time, and clocking out. I tried a few semesters at community college and nothing clicked for me. I ended up getting a desk job and after three years the monotony got to me.

My cousin SFC Harris is the only other person in my family that is in the service and is currently doing her recruiting duty. She put my one buddy SPC Molloy into the service and he's currently a Ranger now. Between the two of them, seeing the transformation of a civilian to a Soldier is just inspiring. I had enough of civilian life and I told my cousin I wanted to be better. I wanted to do something honorable and I wanted to overcome a real challenge. I didn't want to be a loser anymore. The Army was the only path to take.

I contacted a recruiter on a Friday, by the following Friday- I signed my contract. It was the best day of my life thus far. Every single day that passes as a Future Soldier opens my eyes to more of what the Army has to offer me and I can't believe the chance I have now. I'm leaving in April to become a 35F and I couldn't be more excited.

Future Soldier Judy Rodriguez

Rodriguez, Judy a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

My name is Judy Rodriguez. I'm 29 years old and I'm so proud to say that I'm a Future Soldier. I recently enlisted in the U.S Army!!! Yes, some would say a little older than most people usually join the military, but late is better than never. The Reality of life is that you don't always get what you want, when you want it. This is something I’ve always liked and been interested in. I actually became an adult way ahead of my time!

Let's see where do I begin; well I was married for ten years. I was 16 yrs old when I started dating my ex-husband and got married at 17 yrs old. So, I obviously had to learn what it was to be an adult, wife and all the responsibilities that come with those titles at a very young age. It was hard, at times I had to work full time “plus hours” at times. While going to school full time, maintaining a husband and household! I guess it didn't go so bad since I did get my high school diploma, then my associates degree, and kept my job and later moved to my career in the medical field.

My desire has always been to keep pushing myself and accomplish everything I’ve wanted to do. Once I became single, I had to find myself again and become my own person. It had been so long since I only had myself to worry about and consider. My once upon a time thought and desire to join the military came back. I’ve been fortunate enough to have two cousins, friends and my boyfriend who are military veterans (different branches) to guide me through this process. Honestly, when I started considering the military once again, as the questions aroused, such as “Am I too old already?," "Would I be able to keep up with the young kids? Just things of that nature. Then my personality kicked in. LOL HELLO!!!!! Judy, of course you can!!!. You can do everything and anything you put your mind to! If you want “IT” that much you will succeed (where there‘s a “WILL“ there‘s a “WAY“).

I’ve accomplished a lot considering everything I’ve been through in life. I’ve succeeded and accomplished everything I’ve set out to do thus far. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime, something you've always wanted to be a part of. You’ll be part of a team, ‘a Warrior‘!! (something I consider I'm definitely good at). I’ll be part of something greater, bigger than ourselves, serve our country, and defend our freedom.

At that point I spoke to my man and my family and made “THE” call to my recruiting office. I had a lot of support and great advice. My man helped a lot, him being former military (Navy). I’m very proud and happy to have someone who knows and understands the military life. He has helped me with the training process such as: Ranks, Saluting, Marching, ABC's, etc., as well as the overall transitioning from civilian before BCT - and may I add he’s learned too! Since I’m Army and he’s former Navy he had to learn the Army ranks and remember to say “MOS” to me instead of “Rate”, which I still find it funny... he and my family have been my major support team.

My sister has been amazing as well, she’s very active with the Future Soldiers Family page on Facebook. She’s learning military abbreviations to be able to understand the military lingo that I‘ll be speaking once I’ve finished BCT. I am extremely excited, motivated, and ready to embark my new life in the military. I’m happy to be able to show my niece and younger brothers, who are very important to me, a great example and maybe even be their role model. To show them it's never too late to go after what you want in life no matter what life throws at you, even when the opportunity presents itself a little later than expected. Fort Jackson better get ready, Here I come!!!!!! ;-)

Future Soldier Ivan Rivera

Rivera, Ivan a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hey. My name is Ivan Rivera. I'm 27 years old and a father-to-be. When I first thought about joining the ARMY was when I was 18. At that time, a recruiter went to my former high school to offer information to students who wanted to follow a military career. But when I talked to the recruiter he told me I was too fat. Can you imagine how I felt? I really wanted to be important. To be a hero. I was so disappointed that I gave up almost immediately. Almost ten years later (mid December 2010 to be exact) I was at my workplace and a work partner was talking about how proud she was for her sons. The three of them are currently in the Army. And that kinda gave me the desire to try to join again. But there was one detail. I still was overweight. But this time I was decided. When the recruiter took my measurement he told me I was like 10% over. I was 278 pounds that day (February 12) but I went and took the ASVAB anyway. And i did pass it with a good score. Then came the really challenging part. I have to lose about 40 pounds asap. After the first month of intense training and diet, I lost 38 pounds and went from 278 to 240. I was so happy looking at myself. I felt really good and my recruiter was proud of me. After that I went to MEPS, passed the physical test and made the Oath of Enlistment. That was the BEST day of my life. Today I have to wait a few weeks to ship. But I am proud to say I will serve my nation, my people, my family. I am proud to belong to the greatest family in the whole world. I am proud to be a Future Soldier.

Pvt. Rivera.
13D Future Soldier
US ARMY

Future Soldier Jessica Adams

Adams, Jessica a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Hello, My name is Jessica B Adams (aka JBrandi the Drummer Girl), soon to be PFC Adams. I am from San Antonio, TX where there is everything from BBQ and Mexican food to Chinese Buffets and Fast Food restaurants! I decided to join the Army Strong family after 6 years of going from job to pointless job and feeling like I was getting no where in college. I wanted to be part of a group that was larger than myself and wanted to use my hardworking skills to actually get ahead in life. I used to be in sports since 5th grade and have always been in shape. After I graduated I worked a couple of jobs and went to school full time and my weight went to 230+ pounds for a 5'3" female. I decided that I wanted to turn my life around and do something for myself. So I went to a great friend of mine (We will call her Ms. Luke so she won't be embarrassed) and asked for her help. I visited local recruiters to see where I stood as far as weight standards go. Most of them took one look at me and said "Only thing I can tell you is just lose weight!" I got discouraged time and time again until my friend told me to give it one more try. Sure enough, I found a recruiter to give me a chance after I told him how I wanted to turn my life around. He took me to take the ASVAB and took my measurements. Sadly (LOL) I had to lose 60 pounds to get down to 151 pounds!! He told me to keep going and keep up the hard work. So I took 4 workout classes at a local college, including Jogging, Weight training, Cardio Kickboxing, and yes, Fencing! My final was a 10 mile marathon, Fencing Competition in which I placed 2nd place and bench pressing close to 150 pounds! At the end of 5 months I went back and still needed 25 pounds to lose. I was getting disappointed once again because I had done so much hard work throughout the semester. So I went on my own, along side my best friend Ms. Luke and once again pushed myself beyond belief on my own without a coach doing my own 10 mile marathons around San Antonio and hitting the gym countless times. I took a visit to my recruiter after 4 more months and I weighed 148! This past August, I went to MEPS (hit a snag) and took my first Oath of Enlistment in August (was in the first round of marines, sailors and airmen to take my oath) and only my best friend was there bright and early to take photos cheering me on. I can't explain the feeling of accomplishing something like losing 85 pounds and joining the United States Army after 8 months of endless work. I leave for boot camp next year and I will truly be one of the best and hardest working Soldiers out there only because I have been put through so much from being homeless to being sick and losing everything. Finally as a Future Soldier (92Y) I will be the accomplished adult I want to be at 25 years old and I owe it to my best friend (Ms. Luke who has been there from day 1 pushing me to never stop) and my recruiter.
Army Strong 2012!

Future Soldier Mary Macdonald

Macdonald, Mary a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Where to begin? I am a 33 years old, happily married to my high school sweet heart, and have two children 15 and 10 years old. I decided to join the Army to give my family a better life than what we have been living. I am college educated and hold a teaching certification here in Maine. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts I lost my teaching job this year and have found it very difficult to find another one. So after some thought I decided that what better way to guarantee my children's future than to help fight for it along side some of the the best men and women America has to offer. I can't wait to start my life in the Medical Corps and some day...I think I see Officer in my future??!! HOOAH! ARMY STRONG! only 3 1/2 months left before BCT at Fort Sill Oklahoma!!!!!

Future Soldier Kevin Arguello

Arguello, Kevin a photo by Official Army Future Soldier Center on Flickr.

Well, I'm originally from Spain. I was born there, I studied there, I have my
friends and family there... Everything. Once I was thinking about my future after finishing High School; my first thought was joining the military. I won't lie, it was difficult to leave everything behind and come here with some relatives to start a new life by my own. The journey has been as difficult as it could be for someone whose parents are Spanish and American: Problems here and problems there! But the thought of giving up never crossed my mind. I kept fighting for what I wanted. For my dream. For my future.

I studied for the ASVAB really hard (as I said, my English level is pretty good but
not as good as someone who lived here all his life, so I had difficulties to study in another language, even if I knew 90% what I was reading or working on). I submitted all my package materials, including my transcripts from High School, reported to MEPS several times, talked to the recruiters, passed my medical check-ups and picked the job I wanted based on my score and my capabilities... And FINALLY, signed my contract:The contract that offered me the greatest training and resources for my future.

I chose 68W opt. 40 (Combat Medic Airborne Ranger). I couldn't be more satisfied and proud of myself: Proud of what I've accomplished on my own, with hard work, a daily strong mind setting of what I want and what I know I'm able to do.

I came here Sept. 2010 and signed April 2011; Nothing is free, but my story definitely shows that you can get what you want if you really want it.

Hope this helps other people to fight or keep fighting for their dreams.

We all are part of the brotherhood now.

HOOAH Future Soldiers and all service members of the military!