Heightened Re-enlistment

Photo By Lee Craker | Sgt. Steven D. Hall, executive administrative assistant with C3 Operations, Multi-National Corps – Iraq.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

04.21.2009

Story by Renea Everage 

Multi-National Corps Iraq Public Affairs

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Sgt. Steven D. Hall, an executive administrative assistant with C3 Operations, Multi-National Corps — Iraq, was re-enlisted for six years on April 21 by his supervisor, Col. Mark L. Ritter. What was uncommon about Hall's re-enlistment was where he decided to do it.

Hall, a 25 year old native of Glendale, Ariz., was administered his oath of enlistment while flying high above Camp Victory, Iraq aboard a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. "I thought it would be exciting and I would never forget it," Hall said of the experience.

Joining the Army didn't start out as a career goal for Hall, who had also started the hiring process for the police department in Phoenix, Ariz. "I figured I would enlist for four years, have some fun and then go back and work as a Phoenix police officer," he said. Little more three years later, Hall says he realized that if he got out, it would be the people that he'd miss. "The like-minded, selfless Soldiers, who give everything and ask for nothing, are what make the Army what it is. That is what made me decide to make this a career instead of a stepping stone in my life."

Hall chose the stabilization reenlistment option which will guarantee him and his wife, Ashley, a minimum of 12 months at his home station of Ft. Lewis, Wash., after returning from Iraq. Re-enlisting now also made him eligible to receive a bonus that could soon be reduced or eliminated. "I decided to make this a career and I needed to re-enlist, this just decided when," Hall said. "I was able to get a bigger bonus now rather than later for a decision I had already made."

This was his first re-enlistment, but it's not likely to be Hall's last. While deployed, the veteran of three years is also planning to submit a packet for Officer Candidate School. "I look forward to the next 16 years in the Army," he said, "and I look forward to the adventures ahead."

Six more years of military service, bonus money in his paycheck, a possible commission in his future and a helicopter ride to usher it all in — as impressive start for a burgeoning military career. While enjoying the view from the Black Hawk, Hall apparently found only one thing lacking. "I just wish I had a parachute so I could jump when I'm done," he said, smiling. "Airborne!"

• Date Taken: 04.21.2009
• Date Posted: 04.24.2009 08:18
• Story ID: 32809
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ