It might not be the 4th of July or Veterans Day, but anytime is a good time to thank our current and retired veterans for their service.
Everyone reading this should be grateful to live in the United States of America. There are many reasons to love this land and even more reasons to make sure those who have served this land feel appreciated.
Most of us will know and love someone who has served in the military.
Walking down the halls of Salt Lake Community College, hurrying to your next class, you will probably pass one of these heroes. There are many military students that attend SLCC to better their future through education.
Nicholas Mannino is busy writing papers and meeting deadlines while working towards a mass communication degree.
Mannino, a member of the 101st Airborne Division, served a tour in Baghdad.
When asked what skills he has learned that have helped him as a student, Mannino says, “It doesn’t matter what job you are doing, people want four things when paying someone. First, show up at the right place. Second, show up at the right time. Third, show up in the right uniform and fourth, be honest.”
Tilden Swallow, a U.S. Army infantryman, is pursuing a degree in civil engineering.
While serving our country, Swallow says he learned that “Knowledge is the best resource,” and also learned “the discipline to obtain it.”
While some students would never consider such a technical degree, Swallow’s background gives him confidence.
“Because of my time in service I have the courage to go for what I want,” says Swallow.
All military personnel require a high level of commitment and discipline.
“Discipline is required to do anything hard,” says Sgt. Adam Keliipaakaua.
Keliipaakaua served two tours in Afghanistan and two tours in Iraq. During his eight years in the Marines he learned the meaning of discipline and courage.
As he reflects on his time overseas, Keliipaakaua says, “I learned to take everything extremely seriously. I might have developed an attitude of taking everything too seriously.”
This attitude has helped Keliipaakaua earn a 3.96 cumulative GPA as he pursues a psychology degree.
As we go throughout our day, we should pause and express gratitude for our fellow Bruins who have put their life at risk in order to better ours.
Though this article will certainly not reach all of those Bruins who are in the military, I want to thank all of you for your sacrifice, dedication and selflessness. You are what makes this country great.
