Retired Veteran Shares Military Experiences

Post date: Nov 10, 2020 9:55:42 PM

Kennedi Nacey, staff

Joshua Ross, a 30-year-old retired veteran, went into detail about his experiences and outlook on joining and retiring from the military at a young age.

Ross joined the Army when he was just 20 years old. Driving military vehicles, transporting goods, troops, equipment, and fueling helicopters was his area of expertise. Ross was also a platoon sniper in his early military days.

“I was influenced heavily by my dad to join the military. But I knew, even from a very young age, that I wanted to fight for my country,” Ross said. “I was very thankful for the opportunity.”

Ross was enlisted in the Army for six years before retiring and returning to his home in Whitewood, S.D. He said he wasn’t quite sure if he enjoyed the military at first, but looking back now, Ross regrets not appreciating it as much as he should have.

“I made a lot of good friends during my time. I miss them every day and I wish I would have had a little more fun instead of being so serious all the time. Thinking about it now, I would have changed a lot of things if I was to go back and do it again,” Ross said.

Ross strongly encourages all young people to consider fighting for their country if they ever get the chance. The sheer satisfaction of serving and protecting is worth it.