Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion Page 38
I began doing Cross Fit Training with current First Line Supervisor, Sergeant Megan White, who helped me improve my physical
abilities. As she helped me become a better soldier, I helped her become a better leader whether it was in the gym or in the work area.
During this period, I ended up injuring my lower back due to not using the proper technique when doing the given workout, but I did not
notice until I took my Physical Fitness Test. I was given the option to either have a Diagnostic or Record. I decided to do a record to go
ahead and get it over with. When I ran my 2 mile run, I began to really feel my lower back give out on me causing me to stop completely.
The result of that were a failed Physical Fitness Test and a flag. This not only did that, but also put my dreams of attending the Academy
in jeopardy. Later on after I took it, I was called in to talk to my First Sergeant and Company Commander personally. They told me information that I could not believe. I was told that I was the only soldier at my duty station and also the only Private First Class out of the
whole United States Army to be chosen to attend West Point. When they told me that, I became even more determined to bounce back
and pass my Physical Fitness Test. I had a lot of Noncommissioned/Senior Noncommissioned Officers and Officers investing their career
in me and my accomplishment. I felt like if I make it, we all make it.
When I arrived back to the states on April 22nd, 2014 I prepped to take the Physical Fitness test again for the last time. I focused on running and running only. I also did more stretching and taking care of my lower back trying my hardest to stay off of it. On May 12th, 2014,
I bounced back and passed my Physical Fitness Test. When I crossed the finish line, I felt a weight of stress lift off of my shoulders. I
finally overcame my challenge. This was a moment of personal growth and message to everyone that you can do whatever you set your
mind to by keeping the Heavenly Father first, have faith in yourself, and stay motivated and determined to get the job done. Whatever
goals you want to reach, always have a “carnivore” mindset. When you want to achieve a dream, don’t chase it, hunt it down, but always
remember to stay true to yourself and never forget where you came from. This is the start of my legacy in the Army, and the nation. It is
only the beginning and there is more to come. I want to thank my family, friends, unit, and company for having my back through my whole
journey. I really do appreciate it from the bottom of my heart. HOOAH!