Hieveryone!It’sbeenagreatdayforme.I’vebeeninthemilitaryafewyearsand,atthetimeofthisAMA,hadbeeninthemilitaryforayearandahalf.I’vebeeninthemilitarysince2009,andsinceIwas15,beenaMarineCorpscombatveteran.I’mcurrentlyaReservesMarineCorpscombatveteran(andIwasapartofthemilitaryforyearsbeforethemilitarybegantransitioningtotheCorps).
Additional Information\n\nI currently serve as Senior Executive Officer for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Merit System. I was a member of the Navy and in the Marine Corps, and I was involved in combat training in Vietnam. I am qualified to fill this position through the VA and my commanding officer has recommended me for the position.\n\nThe Merit System requires all career military branches to provide an opportunity for honorable discharges, including court-martial, for any meritorious discharge that is not otherwise eligible. I have served as a Navy nurse and as a combat engineer in Vietnam.\n\nI have received numerous awards and decorations for my service, including the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, the Navy Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Meritorious Service Awards, and the Navy and Air Force Unit Cadets Honorary Awards.\n\nThe Merit System also recognizes meritorious actions during peacetime, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, and the Navy and Air Force Unit Cadetship.\n\nI have written and spoken with several military branches about the importance of providing an environment where all are treated equally, and I have been consistent in my message that treating all military members with the respect they deserve is the only way we can truly ensure the success of our military and our children.