FORT KNOX, Ky — Cadets from 4th Regiment, Advanced Camp, time at Cadet Summer

Training is coming to a close. Cadets have just completed the grizzly phase of the Field Training

Exercise and the excitement of graduation is fueling them to finish strong.

Cadet Vanessa Junquera, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is reflecting on the challenging

training that has shaped her during her time at CST. She reflects on her future goals, family

influence and friendships.

Having been interested in the military from a young age, her decision was strongly influenced by

her family’s service, with both her dad and siblings serving in the military.

“I see how much they do and I really appreciate their heroism, their bravery,” Junquera said. “If

they can do it, I can do it.”

Her family never pushed her to join, but Junquera always looked up the them as the youngest of

five siblings. She now has the goal of becoming a veterinarian in military.

“I’ve always want to be a veterinarian,” Junquera said. “ I’ve always loved helping animals, it

just feels like my calling.”

Knowing that completing CST is one more step towards reaching her goals has continued to

motivate her daily.

“Knowing I am so close to the finish line and that it’s just right there,” Junquera said. “We

worked really hard, all of us, through all the weather challenges. I am just excited to see all of us

graduate.”

As her time at CST comes to a close the excitement of seeing her family again is motivating her

to keep going.

“I’m really excited to go home, and family is coming too,” she said. “I can’t wait to see them.”The support of family is not the only thing helping Junquera push through, she is also fueled by

the support and camaraderie she has found in her fellow cadets.

“It’s been really fun building camaraderie out here, really seeing our platoon grow and teamwork

and just like getting to know each other,” Junquera said. “It’s been a really great experience.”