FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets with 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, participate in the rappel tower training, July 20, 2024. Scaling down the rappel tower gives the Cadets confidence in their abilities and shows them they can overcome adversity.

For many, joining the military is a calling, a sense of duty to serve their country. For Cadet Danielle Williams from Morgan State University, she used this opportunity to conquer fears and to be the first person in her family to attend university and join the military. “The military helps me pay for school, so I’m taking out two birds with one stone,” said Williams.

Being the first in her family to pursue higher education and a military career, Williams took a bold step to ensure a brighter future for not only herself but the generations coming after her. Williams states, “I saw the road my parents and siblings were going, and I wanted to be the first to make a generational change and help the future.”

One of the pivotal experiences during her time at Cadet Summer Training was participating in rappel tower training. “I have a fear of heights. I was also anxious if I could do anything correctly, there was a lot of things going on in my head,” said Williams. Despite her fears, she pushed through. “I am very proud of myself. While I was doing it, I was crying, and where a lot of people would usually quit, it was impressive for me to continue to jump down,” said Williams. When asked if Williams would descend the rappel tower again, she stated, “if I don’t have to, no” but she strongly recommended others facing similar fears to confront them head-on.

Reflecting on her experiences, Williams sees great value in her CST experience and encourages others in the Army National Guard, Reserves, or Active-Duty to consider it. “It’s a different opportunity and environment than in the National Guard. We go one weekend a month and two weeks during the summer for the Guard, but here at CST, I’m seeing new people, establishing relationships, and learning more about others. It feels like I’ve grown a lot more here at CST,” said Williams.

Williams’ story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, courage, and desire to change one’s destiny. Through Army ROTC and CST, and events such as the rappel tower, Williams is not only breaking through fears but generational paths and building a foundation for a successful future.