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TALLINN, Estonia — Transitioning from the bright lights of professional football to the rigorous demands of military service might seem like an unlikely path, but for Sgt. Tommy Doles, it was a natural progression. His journey, marked by dedication, teamwork, and a deep sense of duty, has taken him from the fields of the NFL to the front lines of the Army Reserve.
Originally from West Michigan, Doles attended Northwestern University, where he studied political science and business while also playing football. As the captain of Northwestern’s football team in 2018, he thrived on the camaraderie and teamwork that the sport demanded.
“I loved the teamwork and camaraderie that comes with pursuing a goal with a diverse group of people and taking on physical challenges,” Doles recalled. This passion for teamwork continued as he pursued professional opportunities with the Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, and even a team in Paris.
Despite his achievements on the field, Doles always felt a calling to serve his country.
“For me, it wasn’t a matter of if, but when and how I would serve my country and my community,” he explained. His interest in political science, cross-cultural engagement, and civil affairs naturally led him to the Army Reserve. As a civil affairs specialist with the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, he found a way to blend his civilian and military lives seamlessly.
Doles’ deployment to the Horn of Africa was particularly transformative. Stationed at the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Security Cooperation in Tunis, he worked closely with local partners to support U.S. military operations in the region. His experiences there reinforced his commitment to his mission and his desire to make a difference.
Recently, Doles had the opportunity to participate in the NATO Reserve Forces’ annual CIOR Military Skills Competition. This event brought together highly skilled soldiers from around the world to engage in rigorous challenges, including marksmanship, orienteering, and physical fitness. For Doles, it was a chance to combine his love for competition, teamwork, and diplomacy.
“The CIOR competition is about more than just winning,” Doles said. “You take pride in knowing you’ve done your best, prepared well, and left everything out there. I get strength and motivation from the people around me. If my teammates are giving their all, how can I do anything less?”
Balancing military duties with civilian life is no small feat, but Doles takes it in stride, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of his wife, Bethany, who is a doctor of osteopathy in surgical residency and a captain in USARC ARMEDCOM.
“We have to be on the same page,” he noted. “Five weeks away in the summer is a big commitment, especially coming off a deployment. But the support system we have makes it possible.”
Faith is a central pillar of Doles' life, providing him with the motivation and strength to overcome challenges.
“I’m a Christian, and I believe I’ve been reconciled to a holy and good God through His love. That drives me to love others, act justly, and walk humbly,” he shared. “It’s the same motivation I had as an athlete – playing for an audience of one. If God is my only audience, that’s enough to give my all.”
Looking ahead, Doles envisions a long career in civil affairs, with aspirations of eventually transitioning to chaplaincy.
“I love the mission of understanding and engaging with civilians. I’d like to commission as an officer in civil affairs and eventually serve as a chaplain, caring for the spiritual health of soldiers,” he said. This path reflects his deep commitment to serving both the physical and spiritual needs of those he leads.
In the short term, Doles is eager to take the skills and experiences from the CIOR competition back to his unit.
“The military training we receive as part of this competition is second to none. We improve in marksmanship, orienteering, and physical fitness, and it's essential to pass that knowledge on to other soldiers,” he emphasized. He believes in the importance of embodying the values of motivation and dedication in everyday life, continuing to represent his country through his actions both in and out of uniform.
Doles also sees the CIOR program as a long-term commitment.
“I’m not exactly sure what next year will bring, but one thing I’ve seen with CIOR is that people stay connected to it, even if they don’t compete. There are alumni coaches in their 60s and 70s who keep coming back to give their time because they realize this is a special program,” he said. Doles plans to stay involved with CIOR, whether through coaching, attending reunions, or participating in orienteering meets.
Sgt. Tommy Doles’ journey from football captain to civil affairs specialist, from West Michigan to Tunisia, exemplifies the power of dedication, faith, and the unwavering support of loved ones. As he continues to serve and compete, he embodies the spirit of a soldier who thrives on teamwork, challenge, and the pursuit of excellence. Looking to the future, Doles is committed to making a lasting impact, whether through his military service, his role as a mentor, or his future career as a chaplain.
| Date Taken: | 08.02.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 08.29.2024 16:19 |
| Story ID: | 477645 |
| Location: | EE |
| Web Views: | 47 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, From the Gridiron to the Battlefield: Sgt. Tommy Doles' Journey in Civil Affairs, by SGT Lukas Sparks, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
