They are among us – lugging large backpacks and wearing high boots, camouflaged in matching hats and jackets, faces motivated and eyes piercing.

I am a fairly light-hearted writer, and my goal is usually to inspire a laugh from readers or encourage them to contemplate life from a fun perspective, but one topic I do take seriously is the Military.

When I was a senior in high school, I was determined I was going to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, eventually graduating and joining the Air Force. I was brought to an immediate halt when I realized that I lacked basic mathematical skills, was blessed with terrible eyesight and possessed the muscle definition and physical strength of a 12-year-old girl (nothing wrong with that, just not military material).

While I didn’t make it into the Air Force, or any branch of the military, I have immense respect for those who are members. I explored the life of the brave individuals on our campus this week when I conversed with students involved in the military.

As I tried to imagine what my life would be like had I gotten a math tutor, corrective eye surgery and muscles, junior Alex Hahn explained that he “couldn’t be more happy” with his decision to join the National Guard.

“I went to a military academy for high school, so I’m comfortable with the military environment and actually enjoy it. It blows my mind that more kids don’t take advantage of this opportunity,” Hahn explained.

When asked how his life differs from other college students, Hahn explained that it’s not that different, in that he had a three month basic training and subsequently spends only one weekend a month occupied.

For Hahn, a double major in accounting and finance, his favorite aspect of the National Guard is the training.

“It is the polar opposite of what I am studying, and I enjoy that change once a month. The military also holds you responsible for your actions. You have to become responsible for even the smallest things in your life.”

Junior Ronald Zaleski has been a member of the ROTC at UW-La Crosse since he began college, and explained what motived him.

“My grandfather and father were prior service so military discipline was ingrained in me as a child,” said Zaleski. “I joined the army because of my parents and my motivation to serve our beautiful country.”

When asked how the ROTC has made his college experience different than other students, he explained,

“In college, I feel more disciplined and less fearful of taking the initiative or leading a group. I also have a lot less time on my hands than other students.”

One thing that I discovered after conducting interviews this week was that, regardless of position or branch of the Military, one constant remained: the pride and happiness each member felt with their decision to join. While it was never in the books for me, I am so happy to share the campus with these brave individuals.

Next time you see them walking to or from class, or if you know any of them personally, buy them a coffee or a drink, or simply smile or say “thank you.” To service members, you all are making our campus proud.