My name is Chris, a former civilian who first posted on this forum many moons ago: http://www.armyranger.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=2608 I planned to join the Army as a medical officer, and harbored the faintest hope that I would one day serve in the Regiment in some capacity.
Alas, much has changed since I graduated from college. In short, I ended up *not* applying to medical school, worked for the Red Cross instead (Arlington, VA Chapter), applied for and completed Marine Corps OCS, and have since joined the dark-side here in law school. I expect to go on active duty in 2008 after passing the Bar exam, after which I'll head back to Quantico for The Basic School and then on to my first duty station.
I first posted as a bright-eyed, idealistic civilian wannabe who wanted to serve his adopted homeland through medicine. Though the specific path has changed, my goals have remained the same -- to do my part for our nation, to sack up and put my money where my mouth is, and to bridge the growing gap between the snooty Ivy League kids who've never served and the average grunt who has to carry out their policies. Ultimately, I hope to serve in a civil affairs unit. We all have our talents and gifts -- I figure if the 0311's and the 11B's kill the terrorists, I'll do my best to make sure they don't become haji's in the first place.
Though much has changed personally, my love for the Corps has not diminished my respect for Rangers. Thank you, Rangers, for permitting me a peek into your world. Though I may never earn the coveted tab or scroll, I hope to live up to the Ranger example in my own limited way, take care of my Marines the best I can, and do my own small part for our great country.
...and perhaps peek in on the forum from time to time.
respectfully,
2ndLt Shim, USMCR
P.S. A picture to match the name.
