United States Army Drill Sergeant School

       Where to begin..... this has been quite the journey in more ways than one. When I arrived July 9, 2014 I never imagined I would be tested in the ways that I was tested here. This really is the start of a WHOLE new chapter. The first day was the worst and not because of the "shark attack" or the initiation that the Drill Sergeant Leaders (DSL's) gave us, but for the realization that this was my reality for the next nine weeks. My squad was great and I made friends quickly. The hardest part was being the newest NCO and knowing absolutely nothing about being a NCO. My battles squared me away quickly sticking up for me and studying with me well into the late hours of the night. I couldn't believe some of the stories my fellow soldiers had. I found myself in awe of the things that they had accomplished so far in their army careers. They motivated me to no end and I never wanted to let them down. especially in those first few weeks which were filled with team building activities such as confidence courses, introductions and lots of PRT. I was even pulled first for everything in those first weeks and I learned real quick how to take constructive criticism. At the start of each week I would look at the schedule and  think, Lord there's no way I can get all this done but in the end I was always able to do it.

      My relationship with the Lord is another area where I was tested here. I found myself literally brought to my knees almost everyday for the first two weeks. I cried to the Lord, I complained, and I prayed as hard as I could. I literally gave everything to Him because I could not take it all on. If it weren't for that relationship I would have failed a long time ago. He was my stronghold and my constant in the ever changing, unpredictable and chaotic school. I can honestly say that if nothing else was learned or gained from this school my relationship with the Lord has become so much stronger. He has made the promise that He can make good things come out of any situation a reality.

     I came into this school feeling completely and utterly out of place. I thought there is absolutely no way I will make it. I am not mean, loud, knowledgeable, or confident enough to be a drill sergeant. Nor does my military experience measure up to my battles. I really was the worst candidate, or so I thought that had ever been picked for this school. ;) 6 weeks later and I can do anything! As long as I have my faith, my motivation, and my go lucky attitude, I can accomplish any task you throw my way. I am physically, mentally and spiritually stronger. I am so thankful for this opportunity and cannot wait to use what I've learned.

I am so thankful for my battles

Hermesmeyer
Hunt
Harris
Hambright
Hughes
Huggins
Schmidt
Wagner
Lewis
Logan
Lee
Labrada
Kobs