Growing up, service to our country was ingrained in my family's history. From the Revolutionary War to present conflicts, members of my family have dutifully answered the call to serve. This legacy of commitment and sacrifice became a guiding light for me when I made the decision to join the Army.

For me, choosing the Army wasn't just about following in the footsteps of my ancestors; it was about honoring a tradition of service, gratitude, integrity and loyalty that has defined my family for generations. The decision was deeply personal; it meant carrying forward a legacy that spans centuries and continents.

Serving with the First Infantry Division held special significance. It was the same division my father served with during Vietnam and my uncle during Desert Storm. Being part of this historic division connected me not only to my immediate family but also to a broader community of service and sacrifice.

During my time in the Army, I witnessed firsthand the values of gratitude, integrity and loyalty that are fundamental to military service. These values are more than just words; they are the bedrock upon which trust, camaraderie and mission success are built. They guided me through challenging deployments, demanding training exercises and the transition back to civilian life.

Today, as a pro-bono coach and mentor to active-duty servicemembers transitioning into civilian careers, I continue to uphold these values. At GetDoolen.com, I offer support and guidance to those who have dedicated themselves to our nation's defense, helping them navigate the complexities of transitioning from military to civilian life with integrity and purpose.

My journey with the Army has been a testament to the power of service, the importance of legacy, and the enduring values that shape both military and civilian lives alike. It's a journey rooted in gratitude for those who came before me, integrity in all my endeavors, and loyalty to the principles that define who I am and what I stand for.

By choosing the Army, I not only honored my family's legacy of service but also embraced a path of personal growth, leadership and lifelong commitment to making a difference. It's a decision I continue to cherish, knowing that the values instilled in me by the Army will guide my actions and choices for years to come.