FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. – Soldiers from U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM), supported the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence (USAICoE) and United States Army Recruiting Command’s (USAREC’s) “A Day in the Life” event March 24.
After the success of the inaugural event in November 2022, another group of high school students visited Fort Huachuca to get some insight into the lives of Soldiers.
“It’s about giving them the opportunity to learn more about what our Soldiers do,” said Col. Stephen Bynum, USAICoE. “Regardless of if they are looking for a career, or just taking advantage of some opportunities the Army provides until they decide what they want to do next, enlisting can benefit them, the community and country.”
Americans raise their right hand and volunteer to join the Army as Soldiers and Army Civilians for a wide variety of reasons. Units from across Fort Huachuca had the opportunity to show the next generation the possibilities of Army service.
2nd Lt. Emmanuel Bor, U.S. Army Medical Department Activity (MEDDAC), demonstrated buddy aide techniques for students and shared some of his background with them.
Bor, a former non-commissioned officer, has been in the Army for nine years and was commissioned in 2022. Bor is an Army athlete who just qualified to represent the United States at the 2023 World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Bathurst, Australia.
“We get to give them some things they don’t know about the Army,” Bor said. “People don’t realize the opportunities we have, and it’s something they can do in the future if they choose.”
Some students weren’t sure how long they wanted to serve but were intrigued by the school and training opportunities they could receive.
Lt. Michael Baltz, Headquarters and Headquarters Company executive officer spoke with the students about some advantages serving for even a few years could provide.
“By the time you are 22 or 23 years old, [you have] your four or five years of experience with a lot of education experience that no peers have,” Baltz explained.
Sgt. Maj. Ramon Trujillo, Jr. also shared his thoughts on the training and educational incentives students can benefit from.
“In the military, you can still pursue a degree in whatever field you’re trying to go to,” Trujillo said. “And then come out with that degree and credential underneath your belt and the experience.”
Outside of the active duty military, students were able to speak with Army Reserve and National Guard service members. Drill Sergeant, full-time Tucson police officer and Army Reservist, Staff Sgt. Monica Nance, 95th Training Division, helped mentor and escort the students for the event.
Nance remembered her decision to join the active-duty military initially and knew speaking with the students was important.
“I was in the same shoes as them,” Nance said. “I think it’s important for us to help positively influence the next generation.”
Isiah Robinson is a senior from Buena High School, whose dad previously served, and he was able to explore his dad’s former military occupational specialty during the event.
“Just seeing that aspect of the job is intriguing to me,” Robinson said. “It makes me really happy.”
The Army and Fort Huachuca units will continue to invest in America’s youth. With two events already completed, the next one will hopefully not be too far off.
“With the strong community support we keep receiving, we will continue to keep holding these events,” said Staff Sgt. Omar Montano, United States Army Recruiting Command’s (USAREC).
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