Tristan Shirley is a part of the National Guard. Tristan has served in Romania for two months and in Puerto Rico for a month and a half.
What was the biggest challenge you faced while overseas?
“The biggest challenge I faced was helping other people, but not in the way I wanted to. We cleared roads instead of giving them much needed food and water.”
Do you feel this experience has changed you in any way?
“Yes, it definitely changed me. As soldiers, we are trained to get over ourselves. However, in this situation, I would give my MREs (meals ready to eat) to families that would approach me and ask for food.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced while you were away?
“The biggest challenge I faced while being away was having to go back overseas days after my mother passed and be completely focused on the mission. But, I thought of the others there with me and did what I had to do with no regard for myself.”
If the chance was offered would you go back?
“I would love to go back to each place and serve the citizens. There are a lot of less fortunate people in the world. And it’s easy to take your basic necessities for granted until they’re taken from you.”
Tristan serves as an example of a strong individual that is so dedicated to serving and helping others. Thank you for your service, Tristan!
Pictures provided by Tristan Shirley.