Going To The Dark Side

I guess now is the time to make the official announcement. Within the next 90 days, I will no longer be addressed as Sergeant First Class. I will be trading in the 14 years of time and effort I have so far given to the Army in order to receive the lowly title of Candidate.

In July, I will be attending Phase I of Officer Candidate School. If all goes as it should, I will be commissioned a Second Lieutenant  in August of 2008. Numerous fellow NCOs have asked me why, hurled numerous expletives at me, questioned my sanity or offered a combination of the three.

I can only say that, after 14 years of Active, Guard, and AGR time, there are things that I would like to have the opportunity to see and do that I will not be able to if I remain where I am now, no matter how far I go as an NCO. I know that this means burning some bridges and I accept that. Even if it doesn't pan out and I don't get commissioned, I know that I will be viewed differently by some based on my "crossing over" however briefly. This is an unfortunate result of parochialism among some, so be it. “Hier stehe ich, ich kann nicht anders." (Always fun to see a Catholic quote Martin Luther, nicht war?)

I'll keep you all up to speed as things develop and let you know what's going on.

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[Diabolus Causidicus]

what's more frightening is that i didn't need to translate it.

[ArchaicDome]

Ant, I know you will be an outstanding officer. You're an outstanding NCO, and that can only carry over into the officer corps. You'll be at least 10 steps ahead of your fellow Candidates, because you'll have learned one very valuable bit of knowledge: NCOs are the backbone of the Army, and nothing happens without them. Once an officer learns how to use his NCOs, he will excel. I have no doubt all the Soldiers in your command will be All They Can Be, because there's nothing on this green earth stronger than a US Army Soldier- led by an intelligent officer. If I can help at all, let me know. And I'd BETTER be at your pinning. You're SOOOOO getting a blood rank. :)

[Adam Steer]

Hey Anthony,

I commend your difficult decision. Coach Sonnon would say you made the "hard-right choice." It is easy to maintain the status quo, especially under peer pressure. It is much more difficult to choose the toilsome path frought with uncertainty. Although from what I know of you I myself am sure that you will find success at the end of your trials.

Congratulations on your decision.
Adam