@ashley_patti: Today marks 13 years since I raised my right hand and enlisted in the Army National Guard. I originally planned to make this post about my own journey, but today has become about something far more important. Today, one of my Soldiers is being laid to rest. His cousin reached out to tell me that during his visitation, one of the photos included in the memorial slideshow was from the beginning of his National Guard journey a picture of us together from the day he enlisted. He also told me something I'll never forget: that he spoke highly of me and that he loved being in the National Guard. As recruiters, we're often the very first people a Soldier meets in their military career. We're the first uniform they sit across from. The first person who answers their questions, helps calm their fears, guides them through uncertainty, and helps them take that first step toward a future they can't yet see. We don't always get to witness every chapter that follows, but we're given the privilege of being part of the beginning. Moments like this are a reminder that this job has never been about contracts, numbers, or quotas. It's about people. It's about earning the trust of young men and women at a pivotal moment in their lives and helping them find a path forward. Knowing that I made a positive impact on his life means more to me than I can put into words. Today, as I reflect on my own 13 years of service, I'm reminded exactly why I do this job. Rest easy, Zach. It was an honor to be part of your story.

Ashley Patti

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Wednesday 09 September 2026 04:24:16 GMT