I graduated from college with a degree in fine arts in 1990 and got married a few weeks later. I was always drawn to the military; as a kid I loved playing with plastic toy soldiers. So, with a not very lucrative future in art, I joined the Army in 1991. That July I attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., then AIT at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Ind. After joining my artillery unit, I changed my MOS and did a second AIT at Fort Sill, Okla., and became a multiple launch rocket system crewman (13M). I served one enlistment period. Looking back on my life I am very proud to have served in the U.S. Army, as did both my uncles back in the 1950s. Overall, it was a great experience for a young man and does wonders for one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. I’m proud to say I served my country. God bless the USA!