For Capt. Joseph Jeremiah Little, service is about more than wearing a uniform; it is about serving others, developing leaders, and contributing to something larger than himself, both as a North Carolina Army National Guard officer and a North Carolina Highway Patrol senior trooper. He is one of the few individuals who chose to serve his country and his state as a dual first responder after the towers fell almost 25 years ago.
Little, 31, was commissioned in May 2017 and serves as a logistics officer with the Forward Support Company, 105th Engineer Battalion, Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. He deployed with the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team in support of Operation Spartan Shield from 2019 to 2020.
“I joined the North Carolina Army National Guard because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself,” said Little. “I was looking for opportunities to help pay for my way through college, challenge myself, and hopefully develop as a leader.”
A Rockingham native, he has also had his military service shape his civilian career. While deployed in 2020, Little heard fellow National Guard Soldiers discuss their experiences with the North Carolina Highway Patrol, and those conversations inspired him to pursue a career in law enforcement.
“The National Guard has strengthened my leadership, communication, and decision-making skills,” said Little. “Being able to see the bigger picture and think about the long-term effects of my decisions has helped me in a variety of circumstances.”
The National Guard has specifically recognized that many of its members work civilian jobs as police officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses, and other emergency personnel while simultaneously serving in uniform. For Little, the most rewarding part of serving in both professions is the people he encounters along the way.
“I have had opportunities to work with amazing Soldiers and leaders,” said Little. “Whether that’s deployments, leading Soldiers through training, or helping develop young leaders, working toward a common goal has been the most rewarding part of my career.”
The 25th anniversary of 9/11 this year provides an opportunity to recognize not only the first responders who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, but also the thousands of emergency personnel and military members who have continued serving their communities in the years since. Little reflected on the responsibility that comes with serving in two professions dedicated to protecting others.
“The 25th anniversary of 9/11 is a reminder of the sacrifices made by many Americans, including our military members and first responders,” said Little. “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve North Carolina in two different uniforms.”