After 8 years of continuous service, 2 deployments, 5 post reassignments, 6 different jobs, 2 military occupational specialties, and 1 Bronze Star & Combat Action Badge, today was my last day as a Soldier.After providing me my DD 214 I received an unexpected gift of a flag, lapel pin, and letter from the Sergeant Major of the Army, GEN Odierno & Secretary of the Army. I was fortunate to have met (handshake and picture) at this year’s AUSA convention.The feeling is bitter sweet as I am excited about my opportunities in the private sector as an UT MBA but leave behind a lot of good memories of the great men and women I had the privileged to serve with.
All too often the media will report on troubling issues within the service (divorce rates, suicides, accidents, harassment, etc). I however can say that I have had an overall positive experience in the Army and have never been treated unfairly. The Army provided me with a lot of great opportunities. I will always be proud of my service and encourage any young person to consider the privilege of serving in the Greatest Military in the history of the world. Hooah!
Brian E Pedersen,
CPT, USA (Ret.)
CPT, USA (Ret.)