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People join the military for many reasons - patriotism, a sense of duty, family tradition, personal growth, etc. For Spc. John Morningstar, who enlisted in the Army in December 2015, it was to follow in the footsteps of his forefathers. His commitment to service was driven by a desire to honor those who came before him and inspire others.
“I come from a long line of service members going back generations, and I was raised to respect and honor all service members,” said Morningstar.
Morningstar’s initial aspiration was to become a combat engineer, continuing the military tradition in his family and earning the respect of others as he had looked up to service members since he was a child. However, during his Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) evaluation, he received unexpected news that would alter his path.
“I originally wanted to enlist as a combat engineer, but I discovered at MEPS that I was color-blind and was no longer eligible for that position,” Morningstar remembered.
After returning home from MEPS, he turned on the television to watch “Band of Brothers.” An episode focused on a medic from Louisiana, his home state at the time, struck a chord with him. The character’s story resonated with him, and he realized that becoming a medic was his true calling.
Though not his initial choice, specializing in the medical field opened unique opportunities for Morningstar. He experienced things most people never have the chance to, including an overseas training mission that stands out as a highlight of his career.
“One of the biggest highlights of my career has been going to a different country for a training mission,” said Morningstar.
During this mission, he collaborated with the nation’s special forces medical professionals and U.S. special forces units, gaining invaluable insight into their operations.
Looking ahead, Morningstar has a few goals. He hopes to become a noncommissioned officer and mentor others, preparing the next generation of medics for success. Additionally, he plans to return to South Carolina to assist his mother in caring for his stepfather.
Among his professional ambitions, Morningstar finds strength and support in his personal life. His wife, Sage Morningstar, has been a pillar of support, standing by his side through all of the challenges and acting as a rock whenever the world shakes.
“I have a beautiful wife waiting for me back home and an immense support system in my career,” added Morningstar. “She's an absolute cheerleader for everything I have wanted to do in my career and has been the encouragement I needed when service has been difficult.”
Morningstar continues to honor traditions, embraces new paths, and finds strength in the support of loved ones throughout his service.
| Date Taken: | 07.29.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 08.02.2024 11:36 |
| Story ID: | 477212 |
| Location: | (UNDISCLOSED LOCATION) |
| Web Views: | 431 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Why I Serve: Discovering a Calling, by SPC Tyler Becker, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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