FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY – Some people cycle through various careers before finding their dream job, while others have known since the beginning. Cadet Ana Lopez-Medina, University of Arkansas, 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp fits into the latter.
Lopez-Medina, alongside other Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, watch Cadre demonstrate weapon safety procedures, mechanics and usage for the M240, M110, M2 and M320 at Steeles Range for a weapons demonstration on Fort Knox, Ky., July 25, 2024. This allows Cadets to become familiar with weapons, learn the basic mechanics of how they operate, and brings Cadets like Lopez-Medina one step closer to fulfilling their dream.
“I always knew that since I was a little girl, this is what I wanted to do,” said Lopez-Medina.
This dream was ignited from the start. Growing up, Lopez-Medina had a neighbor who was a Navy veteran. As she got to know him, she began to view him as a grandfather-like figure in her life.
“He always inspired me,” said Lopez-Medina. “I have said over and over “I’m going to join the military.” So whenever I got to college, I enlisted in the National Guard. This really is a full circle moment.”
Having prior service going into Basic Camp gives Lopez-Medina an upper-hand when it comes to Basic Camp. In September 2023, Lopez-Medina enlisted in the Arkansas National Guard.
Even though her time on the enlisted side was short, it proved she was where she was meant to be. After establishing she was on the right track, she is now contemplating joining Army ROTC, leading her to Basic Camp.
“I am looking at Army ROTC because of the leadership skills that I know I’ll be able to get from it and for all the opportunities that are available through the program,” said Lopez-Medina.
Being at Basic Camp this summer has allowed Lopez-Medina to become familiar with the Army, its expectations, and training she would be going through for ROTC. Her experience at CST has helped her not only gain insight into the world of Army ROTC, but become a well-rounded Soldier, student and person.
“Coming to Basic Camp was probably the best thing I could have done this summer. It has really helped me be a better person and student,” said Lopez-Medina.
This weapons demonstration is the next step in Lopez-Medina’s Basic Camp journey and military career. Although she may still be deciding what path to take, Basic Camp has helped her develop a better understanding of the United States Army and Army ROTC.
After watching the demonstrations, Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, practice firing a variety of weapons at Steeles Range on Fort Knox, Ky., July 25, 2024. The weapons demonstration allows Cadets to become familiar with weapons and learn the basic mechanics of how they operate. | Audrey Shaw, Florida State University, Cadet Summer Training Public Affairs Office
Cadre give demonstrations to Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, on how to operate a variety of weapons on Fort Knox, Ky., July 25, 2024. The weapons demonstration allows Cadets to become familiar with weapons and learn the basic mechanics of how they operate. | Audrey Shaw, Florida State University, Cadet Summer Training Public Affairs Office
After watching the demonstrations, Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, practice firing a variety of weapons at Steeles Range on Fort Knox, Ky., July 25, 2024. The weapons demonstration allows Cadets to become familiar with weapons and learn the basic mechanics of how they operate. | Audrey Shaw, Florida State University, Cadet Summer Training Public Affairs Office
About the Author: Audrey Shaw
