When and why did you decide to join the military and where were you located when you made this decision?

July 1979. Grew up in a poor household in Brooklyn. No money to pay for school. My choices were a low-paying job or the military. There was no war on at the time.

Where did you serve during your time in uniform?

Texas, Washington State, Germany

What were some of your key memories during your time of service? 

All good. Before, I never drank. Had my first beer in the service. I had the gift of gab and got along well with everyone. I enjoyed the training. I was a medic in the army. I planned on becoming a doctor but the AIDS outbreak at that time (the 1970's) scared me. So I became a correction officer at Rikers Island, then a security officer at the Tombs on Canal Street.

What is an important value that you took away from your military experience? 

Military taught me strength, not being scared, having "oomph." Learned to love and respect this country more. Treat people the way I want to be treated.

 What advice would you give someone interested in joining the military? 

Don't get involved in drugs or drinking. Learn as much as you can. Take classes and go to school. the military will give you a great job and training.