2LT Joshua Gorczyca, U.S. Army (2017-2022)

During my military service, my favorite automobile was a simple but reliable 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. There was something about that vehicle that really suited both my practical needs and the sense of adventure that life in the military often brings. It wasn’t flashy or over the top, but it was tough, dependable, and could handle just about anything I threw at it much like many of the Soldiers I’ve had the privilege to serve with.

The Crosstrek accompanied me through a variety of terrains and climates. From the dusty backroads near training ranges to the snowy mountain passes on trips home, it always got me where I needed to go, much like the steadfast equipment we rely on in the Army. It didn’t complain or falter, even when the road conditions were less than ideal. And in many ways, that Subaru became a symbol of resilience for me reminding me that even in challenging times, staying the course and continuing forward will eventually lead you through.

One of my favorite memories in that Crosstrek was a long drive back from a training event. I had just finished a week of physically and mentally demanding exercises, and as I settled into the driver’s seat for the journey home, it felt like entering a sanctuary. I recall stopping at a scenic overlook, where the mountains stretched endlessly before me, and the sun was just beginning to set. That moment of quiet peace, sitting in my Subaru, with no rush to be anywhere, is something that sticks with me. It was a moment of stillness amid the busyness of life like the moments of reflection and prayer we find in our spiritual lives.

That vehicle was also there for the simpler, everyday moments like trips to the grocery store after coming home from the field, or heading to chapel on Sunday mornings. It was my constant companion, always ready to help me carry what I needed, whether that was my rucksack after a long day or a few bags of groceries for the week. In a way, my Subaru Crosstrek embodied the principle of stewardship making the most of what we have to care for others and ourselves, just as we do in our daily duties as chaplains.

Attached is a photo to share, my memories of that car bring back a sense of gratitude for the simple things in life the tools that help us on our journey, the moments of peace amidst the chaos, and the steady presence that carries us through both the challenges and the everyday moments. For me, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a reminder of resilience, peace, and the importance of staying grounded in faith and purpose, no matter where the road may lead.

Read the Military Memories of our Runner-Ups.