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Seaman Apprentice Maria Espinolaramirez recently graduated from the #Navy ‘s only #BootCamp. We sat down with him to ask a few questions, so that everyone has a chance to meet one of our newest Sailors!
Q: Why did you join the Navy?
A: The main reason I joined was for education. I couldn’t afford to pay out of pocket for college. I saw the opportunity in the Navy for my education. It’s important for me because my family hasn’t been able to continue on the careers that they’ve strived for. I want to be an inspiration to them to keep going and find a better life and show them how I can get my education.
Q: What does being recognized as a spotlight Sailor mean to you?
A: Being recognized for this shows me that I am on the right track and doing the right thing. Keeping up with my work and helping my shipmates is what I strive to do. It’s great knowing that they’re there for me as much as I am for them. Having that support system helps not only keep my spirits up, but also the morale of my fellow shipmates.
Q: Who motivated you during boot camp and how did they do that?
A: The two main people that motivated me during bootcamp were BM2 Mitroff and HM2 Bridges. They really motivated me by always helping me with whatever I was struggling with. They helped me push my limits and keep going even when I didn’t want to keep going. The run had been one of my biggest challenges, they really helped motivate me by running with me and telling me that I could do it all the way through.
Q: What was the biggest challenge for you in boot camp?
A: Running was hands down the most challenging part. I struggled a lot with being in my head about it, telling myself “I can’t do this anymore, I stink at running.” My RDC’s really kept me going by telling me that this pain is only temporary. It really meant a lot and motivated me enough to run the mile and a half in the time I needed. It was a low moment I wanted to quit but I’m so happy I was able to keep going and push forward.
| Date Taken: | 01.18.2022 |
| Date Posted: | 01.28.2022 10:27 |
| Story ID: | 413125 |
| Location: | GREAT LAKES, ILLINOIS, US |
| Web Views: | 58 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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