The Christy Collection

Military Stories and Articles

Service Reflections of LTC Stephen Smith, U.S. Army (1985-2022)

Service Reflections of LTC Stephen Smith, U.S. Army (1985-2022)

There is no doubt in my heart that it was the Lord God and the encouragement of a dear/beloved friend who influenced my decision to join the US Army. Here is the quick story: In our senior year in high school, we had the opportunity to attend George T. Baker Aviation Technical School, a trade school where we would become aviation sheet-metal and power-plant mechanics. After a year at the trade school, my buddy on a particular day saw an Army commercial on TV, “Be All You Can Be In The Army” campaign. Influenced by the TV commercial, he went to the recruiter’s office and signed up. The following week, when I saw him at the trade school, he told me that he had joined the Army. I remember plainly saying to him, “Are you mad!” My buddy explained to me the military incentive the Army was offering him once he completed Basic Training. I was so encouraged by what he shared, especially the financial incentives the Army was offering for college (The GI Bill). Pondering what my friend had told me, I prayed to God for guidance and direction about joining the Army. Given the peace, the following week I went to the recruiter’s office and signed up, and joined!

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Explaining Army Basic Training

Explaining Army Basic Training

United States Army Basic Combat Training, also referred to as Initial Entry Training, is the recruit training program of the United States Army, for service in the Regular Army, United States Army Reserve, or the Army National Guard. Army basic training is how raw recruits are sculpted into members of the most powerful military force in the history of mankind. United States Army Basic Training Passing basic training is necessary to join the Regular Army, US Army Reserve, or the Army National...

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