USCG (CG 1)

They required an essay as to why I wanted to be part of the USCG. I found that a bit unusual; but I liked it. No other branch required it, making those apps easier but perhaps less insightful. Anyway, I like to write so I crafted a dandy. But then I learned that I hand to hand-write this litte gem. Sometimes I wish I wasn't so long-winded. Here we go.....This is the essay that I submitted along with my application materials. I had to hand write this. With black pen. Not blue. Black.

It is almost 11 years in the making, but my decision to serve in the United States military was finally made. Ebbing and flowing over time as this idea did, the need to serve finally stuck about one year ago. Unfortunately, my age and circumstances had changed significantly during the same period. As I learned more about serving in the military it became apparent that my window, though closing, was still available. I met with other branches with unsatisfactory results. These obstacles allowed me to pause and reflect on what I truly wanted to do with my time in the military. I knew firmly that I wanted to perform in some policing/security/law enforcement capacity; furthermore, I realized that I had a longing to be on the water. Growing up in New Jersey afforded me the opportunity to frequent the bays and ocean. I remember going to Point Pleasant and walking by the Coast Guard station there, staring in awe at the vessels and crew in port. I remember wanting to be a part of that experience. And so these somewhat obscure memories returned and my decision became quite clear.

Serving my country is something that I've come to realize is my responsibility. There are those that cannot serve; there are those that would not serve. And so it is up to the able and willing to fill this necessary void. Recent months have demonstrated that these able and willing people are dedicated, highly trained and committed to their duty and to the United States. I believe that I am - that I can be - one of these people as well. I have the will and the desire to serve. More specifically, I want to take an active role in the protection of our country, its waterways and its people. I am willing to be involved in all manner of Coast Guard activity, for it is not the exact task set before me. Rather, it is the simple desire and ability to serve others that drives my interest.

I recently mentioned my intention to enter the Coast Guard to some classmates. We had a presentation scheduled and I explained that I might not be able to make it due to my intake processing. The six or so people in the group were at first surprised, not knowing of my interest. After this initial emotion, they all thanked me. For what, I asked, I'm not even in the service yet? For serving - or for wanting and attempting to serve - for protecting our shores, they collective stated. It was a moment of immense pride for me. It solidified all the reasons and rationales I've used for entering the military. In that one moment, I knew this was the right decision. I am proud that, after 11 years of thought, I've decided to finally commit to this experience. I expect to be challenged and maybe frustrated along the way. But I also expect to be extremely proud both of my service and the service of others. I am fully dedicated and committed to seeing this through to the end. The US Coast Guard can expect, and will receive, the very best that I have to offer.