Creek Speak November 2017 | Page 19

For example, there are some Marines stationed in the states that can deploy within 48 hours to anywhere in the world. Whether they get the call on Father's Day, or their daughter's birthday, they will leave immediately to protect us. I want to be part of a team that will drop anything and everything to protect their fellow Americans. Every American in the United States Military has the mindset to do anything and everything to protect the flag, our constitution, and our people. I want to be part of the team who does those three things while helping people around the world in times of need. An example of when the U.S. Marines helped was when they went overseas to provide earthquake relief in Haiti, Nepal, and India. My friends and I have noticed these heroic actions from men and women in uniform and want to keep their mindsets and beliefs alive. I am joining for one big reason, and that is to keep the American flag flying, and to protect everything it stands for.

The way I was raised has a huge impact on my decision to be a part of the United States Military. I understand that I will come back changed and I also understand that I may not come back at all. However, I learned at a young age that our freedom comes at a cost. Many men and women paid for that cost, and I won't let their legacy be forgotten. The thought of a people’s way of life being threatened is scary, but what is even scarier is the thought of losing freedom. I'm joining so people can put that thought to rest. I am joining so my fellow Americans, friends, and family can live life, get together, laugh together, and make memories.