CAMP WALKER, Republic of Korea — The Army Combat Uniform is unconventional swimwear and made for a memorable poolside reenlistment ceremony at the Camp Walker Aquatics Center.
Sgt. James P. Parker III, Traffic Investigator at U.S. Army Daegu Provost Marshal's Office, dove in feet first and swam the 25-meter long pool before completing his oath of enlistment on Feb. 25.
"The reason I wanted to reenlist at the aquatic center is because most of my time spent in water training has been the most challenging," said Parker.
Parker credits Combat Water Survival Assessment (CWSA) training he underwent during Ranger School for giving him the idea to hold his reenlistment ceremony in the pool. CWSA is a series of grueling endurance-based swimming challenges that test stamina, strength, mental fortitude, and sheer will.
"I did not successfully complete Ranger School, but I know my tab is still waiting for me to come back to earn it. Every day I wake up and look at myself in the mirror and ask myself 'How can I embrace the suck today?' because I know one day I will return and I will accomplish one of my personal goals."
Ranger School is not the only goal Parker has. He has been accepted into the Army's Green to Gold program and is seeking an officer's commission.
"I want to Commission in the United States Army as an officer because I want to lead hundreds of troops to success and better the Army as a whole. I will be looking forward to serving my country and all of the challenges that will come ahead as an officer."
The reenlistment event was supported by U.S. Army Garrison Daegu's Directorate of Emergency Services and FMWR team, which reserved the location for the event.
"This is the first time I have witnessed a water reenlistment. I thought it was different and I am glad we were able to support this request. I hope FMWR was able to make a positive impact," said James Mathis, USAG Daegu Supervisory Sports Specialist.
USAG Daegu is committed to being an Assignment of Choice and making the installations Great Places to Live and Work by providing excellent quality of life support and services for military communities.
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