a few reasons

Every branch in the military plays a vital role in our nation's security.

There are four basic reasons why I desire to be a Naval Officer.

1) Challenge

It's been a childhood dream to complete boot camp and to be pushed to the brink of breaking down. We've all watched war movies, dramas, and read countless books of military history (well at least I used to), and I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to be in that world. In addition, what an opportunity to be an instrument of national policy. Not on paper, but in day-to-day life! The challenge of knowing that what you're doing has a much bigger impact than just yourself, and the time you invest in your work is on behalf of your country. Combining that with your oversight on the growth of enlisted personnel who you are supervising...a great opportunity to be a great witness as well as develop leadership experience unmatched in the private sector.

2) Service

War is shared from generation to generation. My desire to serve is not political; rather, necessity. There is a need for leaders to lead the young men and women of our country who put their lives on the line for our safety. These leaders need to be ones who will put their lives down before anyone else, and know the grave and honorable task they have. And to think, what an amazing platform to share the gospel with others. My men would witness my character and life on a daily basis, and could then be exposed to the love of Christ in my life. To lead lovingly, but justly. May Christ be glorified. I sincerely believe leading servicemen is a duty so important that I cannot stand idly by and assume another will take the responsibility. I don't see many other occupations that can teach you service like one that forces you to put others' lives before yours every day, and to make sure they are taken care of.

3) Duty

As a young man in his 20s and blessed with good health and mind, I feel that it is my duty to dedicate myself to serving my country. Of course this could be done in countless ways, but I feel that serving in the Navy is a very direct contribution that is feasible. There are many criteria and attributes that leaders must be measured by, but I asked myself two questions before deciding to pursue an officer commission. First, would I sincerely care for my men and put their lives before mine? Second, in the midst of the chaos, am I a man who is confident in the soverienty of God? After being able to answer both questions, I feel obliged to offer myself in service to servicemen.

4) Honor

For family, for country, for God.

Why the Navy in particular?

To be perfectly honest, I wanted to be a Marine Officer in the beginning, but had to honestly assess my physical state. In addition, the Marines are rapidly downsizing (more so than the Navy) and there were basically no slots available.

The Navy has a rich tradition and a lot of flexibility for its members. Not only would I be actively serving in a diverse group of geographic arenas, but I would be trained in the specialty of my interest. Encompassing a wide range of diplomatic and combat arms in its arsenal, the modern US Navy is the force to be reckoned with. The logistical sphere the navy encompasses guarantees continued opportunity to learn and develop skills applicable to any field.

Family tradition in the Naval forces is also a big proponent of my inclination towards the Navy.

Whatever branch, I hold respect for any service member. But the Navy will always hold a special place.