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I attend Virginia Tech one of the six senior military colleges in the nation. I am also involved in the Army ROTC program here, a highly revered program across the United States. But, being involved in the Army ROTC program at Virginia Tech is quite different than most other schools. Being part of any ROTC program at Virginia Tech requires you to join the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets or VTCC for short. The VTCC parallels military schools such as VMI and West Point. The VTCC mission statement  states "our mission is to graduate leaders of exemplary character who are instilled with the values and skills essential for leadership success in service to our nation." Because of the Corps of Cadets, I have to wear my uniform everyday, live on campus all four years at college, and have a curfew at night. The list of rules goes on and on. But, even with all these stipulations, I decide to remain in the program semester after semester. Why? It's the unexplainable burning desire in my heart that makes me want to pay back the good old US of A, an obligation I feel like I need to complete to pay back the country for what it has done for me.

Here's a picture of me in my Virginia Tech Corps of Cadet uniform. Those ribbons(medals) are Army ROTC and VTCC medals and decorations.

And with this burden, many people approach me and say the five words I hate hearing, "thank you for your service." One thought instantly comes into my mind, "I haven't done anything to deserve this praise." I haven't served and I definitely haven't done anything beneficial for this country yet. I'm not even a part of the Army; I'm just a cadet. The only thing I've done for this country is leech away at tax payer's money and complain about all the bullshit I have to deal with. I complain about the uniform I have to wear everyday. I complain how cold it is when I'm out in the middle of the woods for an Army training exercise for a weekend. I complain about the stupid and mindless rules I need to follow. But, I'm damn proud to be in this program and be associated with the greatest military force in the world.

But after thinking about it, maybe I shouldn't be so negative and take the praise with appreciation. Yes, it's true I haven't been overseas and been in some crazy military operation, nor have I had to risk my life. But I made the initiative 99% of other Americans wouldn't do: I volunteered. I'm the 1%. The 1% of the United States who are a part of the military.

And maybe next time when someone approaches me and says "thank you for your service," I'll smile back and show a few words of appreciation.