When asking Travis Stamp to describe his role in the Army National Guard and he said, “I’m a recruiting and retention NCO [Noncommissioned Officer]. I put people in the military and help those who are already in, stay in.” Staff Sergeant Travis Stamp has been in the military for eleven years of his life. Staff Sergeant Stamp said, “I first wanted to focus on college. I didn’t want to enroll first and leave for years.” For most people who serve in the military, they have moments that stand out more then others. Staff Sergeant Stamp said, “There were a lot of compelling moments during my time I’ve served, but overall I’m not sure. I’ve loved the whole experience while being in the military and serving my country and community.” Going into the military can cause life changing problems for some people. Staff Sergeant Stamp said, “Being in the military I have changed a lot. I have missed holidays, birthdays, etc. which has been tough, but I grew up around it. So, I understood that was apart of it.” Many people remember the day they joined. For some people it could be a happy and exciting day, and for others it can be a sad and scary day. “The day I joined was the day after my seventeenth birthday. I was so scared. When I joined, it was at a time where we were at war and at the time it as a lot to take in.”

There are so many different jobs that you can have when in the military. Staff Sergeant Stamp shared, “I have been in infantry, worked in marketing, and I have been a recruiter for the last seven years.” Not all people who enlist in the military get deployed and there are several people who never have to worry about getting deployed. “I have been in the military for eleven years, and I have never been deployed.” Basic training is something everyone has to do when enrolling in the military. Some people can’t handle basic training, but it was amazing for Staff Sergeant Stamp. “While at basic, I made friendships that will last a lifetime. Getting to meet so many people from so  many different back grounds was amazing. Although it was physically and mentally tough, I loved every second of it.” For people who have never been around military life it can be hard to adjust. “For me, it wasn’t hard to adjust to military life. I grew up around several people in the military, so it was normal for me,” says Staff Sergeant Stamp. There are several things that get left behind when you go to the military and it can be hard for some people. “I am way better in a structured military setting, so there is not anything I missed about civilian life besides family and friends,” says sergeant Stamp. Staff Sergeant Stamp had advice for people who want to go into the Army. “Just do your homework and go with something that helps you get to your goals.” When advising those transitioning back into civilian life, he said, “If needed get help with the tough transition. Lean on friends and other resources when times get tough. The transition is tough, but take it day by day.”