birthday in 2003. I had always
thought that I would at least
try to be in the military if I
wasn't satisfied with my life.
In 2003, I began to doubt
myself. I had lost that
charisma that had worked
heretofore. It seemed like I
would never have stability and
be able to live past
"hand-to-mouth"
plane less than 30 days later. I was so
ready to be in a position that my family
could lean on me for support, vie me
depending on them.
I hated bootcamp so much. I tried to
quit so many times. I had even packed
my seabag a few times to get the hell
out of there.
I couldn't swim either. I resented the
fact I had to take lessons three times a
day.
Yet, I made it. I now know that I can do
anything I put my mind to.
Jan 2004. I was excited and
encouraged. I was in the military. I
was determined to maintain my military
bearing. I excelled so much that I was
made class leader and acting
master-at-arms. I would call the
company to formation and dress them
off. Little ole me...a "green" sailor just
out of bootcamp. I was tough too. I
was quickly disliked because I had
guts. I would quickly correct anyone's
breach of military bearing. I can see it
all now...me yelling and jowling,
"Shipmate! You are at attention!"
I was the pipeline honorman (the
highest average throughout all classes)
I am now a Third Class Petty Officer.
I will be a Second Class Petty Officer
once my paperwork is reviewed.
I am in "C" School.
I don't have much interaction with my
peers who don't have sea time.
Now I interact with guys who have been
out to see and resent the fact that I
haven't been but still have managed to
receive a "C" School.
