SSG Kevin Larrabee—Hero On Call

I joined the Army at 17, right out of high school. I went to infantry basic training at Fort Benning, GA, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was stationed at Fort Hood, TX for two years and trained in Germany during Operation Desert Storm. At 19, I was ready for college and the National Guard seemed like a great fit. So I joined a National Guard unit in my hometown.

The Guard sent me to Fort Jackson, SC, for eight weeks to retrain in the personnel field. I then returned home and enrolled in college. I only had to drill one weekend a month, so I had plenty of time for classes. I received my B.A. in communications in four years. With the money the Guard provided for tuition and the G.I. Bill, I was able to go to college full time, live in an apartment on campus and only work a part-time job.

After a few years in the Guard, I managed to land an AGR (Active Guard Reserve) position in my hometown. Every state has some AGR positions. Active Guard Soldiers support the traditional one weekend a month Soldiers. AGR Soldiers get the same pay and benefits as an active duty Army Soldier. I am working to get 20 years active duty for retirement, but the traditional weekend Guard Soldier also gets a great 20-year retirement.

The National Guard has provided me all of the skills and support necessary for success in my education, career, physical fitness, spiritual fitness and family life. All the while, serving my state and country. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Contact your local recruiter for more information.