A Decision That Changed Everything
Joining the Army wasn’t always part of my plan—but it ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Before the military, life felt uncertain and overwhelming. I was a young, single mother trying to make ends meet while working as a waitress and sharing a car with my mom. I knew I wanted more for my life and for my son.
What started as a desperate search for stability turned into a life-changing journey of growth, leadership, and faith. In this post, I want to share why I joined the Army, the path it led me on, and how it shaped the woman I am today.
My Life Before the Army
Before I joined the Army, I was living with my mom and working at Golden Corral as a waitress. I wasn’t making enough to live on my own, and even though I was going to college, it was hard to stay consistent—especially without my own transportation. I shared a car with my mom and felt stuck.
I first tried to join the Air Force, but I wasn’t eligible as a single parent. So, I walked over to the Army recruiting office—and that decision changed everything. I was allowed to wait until my son turned one before leaving for basic training.
I joined in November 2004 for stability, to serve my country, and to create better opportunities for my family and myself.
From Basic to Battlefield
Driving from the MEPS station to basic training, I was nervous and unsure, but determined. Basic training wasn’t easy, but it taught me discipline, courage, and how to fire a weapon for the first time. I accomplished things I never imagined I could.
After training, I was assigned to Fort Campbell, KY. I hit the ground running. I deployed twice to Iraq, leaving my son and my 4-month-old daughter in the care of my family. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but my faith in God kept me strong, and I made it home safely.
At Fort Campbell, I went from PV2 to SGT; my first leadership role. It wasn’t easy, but I learned how to lead by example. I later moved to Fort Gordon (now Fort Eisenhower), deployed to Afghanistan, made the rank of SSG, and changed my MOS to Human Resources.
During this time, I met my husband and spent five years at Fort Gordon. Then came orders to Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), followed by the biggest surprise—I was selected to become a Drill Sergeant.
Me? The quiet girl? Becoming a Drill Sergeant transformed me. It gave me confidence I didn’t know I had. I loved training soldiers and still run into some of them to this day. I may not remember every face, but I love seeing how far they’ve come.
I was later promoted to SFC and commissioned as a Warrant Officer before returning to Fort Hood. I deployed again—this time to Kuwait—and built lifelong friendships. Today, I’m stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, preparing for retirement.
I’ve come full circle, from a struggling single mom to a confident leader, wife, and soon-to-be retiree.
How the Army Changed My Life
The Army gave me more than a paycheck—it gave me:
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Discipline that shaped every area of my life
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Leadership that carried into my role as a mother and business owner
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Friendships that became family
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Financial stability when I needed it most
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A purpose that gave me pride and direction
It gave me the strength to keep going and the structure to build something better for my family.
What the Army Taught Me
The Army taught me:
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That I’m stronger than I ever thought I was
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That leadership isn’t about a title—it’s about showing up, even when it’s hard
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That service is more than a job—it’s a calling
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That faith and perseverance will get you through anything
Each challenge helped shape me into the woman I am today.
To the single moms out there wondering if they’re strong enough to serve—I was you. And if you have the drive, the Army can open doors you never imagined. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. You don’t have to be fearless—you just have to be willing.
Motherhood in the Military
Throughout my military journey, I held a lot of emotions. I didn’t talk about it much, I just reminded myself I was doing this for my kids so they could have a better future.
They’re proud of my service, but it’s never easy when I have to leave. I’m beyond grateful for an understanding family that knows I’m doing everything for them. And I can’t say enough about my husband, he’s my rock. As a prior service member, he understands the sacrifices and has always supported me when duty calls.
Military life shaped my parenting. It made me stronger and passed that strength onto my children. My youngest daughter, who’s in 8th grade, already wants to join the Army as a medic. I was the first in my family to serve, and if she chooses to follow in my footsteps, I’ll be proud, prayerful, and cheering her on every step of the way.
Looking Back with Gratitude and Ahead with Hope
As I prepare for retirement, I reflect with a full heart. The Army helped shape every part of me, from my confidence to my calling. I’ve grown in my faith, become a better mom, and even started my own business.
I wouldn’t change a thing. I thank God for leading me here.
Share Your Story
Have you served in the military or thought about joining? I’d love to hear your story.
Drop a comment below or share what inspired you to serve—and how military life shaped you.
Let’s celebrate our stories together.
