Thanks to an invitation to attend one of the drill weekends for the Oklahoma National Guard, Jayden Abbott of Rush Springs made the decision to become a member and pursue a career in the military.
“I was in the thick of cross-country season when my cousin invited me to a drill weekend. She wanted me to help give the soldiers some tips on shaving time off their mile time to help improve their PT scores. Before the day was even over, I had called to let my mom know I would be enlisting. I loved the healthy competitive push to make you a better person, the comradery, and accountability was evident immediately. I chose National Guard so that I could continue my education and go to college,” said Abbott.
Her uncle and late aunt both served in the military and her cousin is serving as her recruiter. For Abbott, the recruiting process was an easy one.
“With my cousin being my recruiter, my experience was unique. I had a very inside look of what goes on. The military has taught me to go with the flow and no news is good news. The process is a little overwhelming since everything is so foreign to you, but they walk you through and it’s worth all the twists and turns and hard work,” said Abbott.
Abbott will serve in the Oklahoma National Guard as a 92 Yankee or Supply Specialist.
“I love to organize and help people and this job allows me to do both of those things,” said Abbott. “What I love most about the military is how it is literally one team, one fight. Everyone in that uniform has everyone’s back even when we’re out of uniform. You come together as one and put your differences aside. It truly is a family. Without the military I’m not sure where I would be today.”
While in high school, Abbott played softball, basketball and ran cross-country and track. That athletic background certainly helped her while in basic training.
“I graduated early so I could attend boot camp and my AIT training and get back home in time to start college this last fall. I am a freshman in college,” said Abbott. “Sports played a huge role in preparing me for boot camp and the military. Sports pushes you to be mentally and physically tough. Both of those things are very important in the military. I was awarded the Iron Soldier award in basic training. That is given to one soldier for the highest PT scores. My experience and years playing sports definitely contributed to my ability to be able to achieve that.”
During her free time, Abbott said she enjoys hanging out with friends and making memories or driving to Medicine Park in Lawton.
