When Sharon Richardson left for basic training, she had just finished her junior year at Grandfield High School.

Most of her peers were preparing for a relaxing summer at the lake or a summer job. Richardson was preparing for the next chapter of her life.

“I have always been interested in the military since I was younger. I decided in the winter of 2021 in my junior year of high school that the National Guard would be the best option for me if I wanted to achieve my goal of attending

college,” said Richardson. “I have two older brothers that have served in the military. One is still serving in the Air force and the other just recently fulfilled his contract with the Oklahoma Army National Guard. I also have a cousin that is serving in the Oklahoma Army National Guard as well.”

Richardson said the recruiting process was an easy one.

“I am serving to protect and defend my country and my people. Nothing can be more rewarding.”

“I would say the recruiting process was easy for me. My recruiter was local, very helpful, and always had answers to all of my questions. I knew and was prepared for the commitment I was taking so the recruiting process was easy-going for me,” said Richardson. “Originally, I wanted my MOS (Military Occupational Specialties) to be 13M, which is a launch rocket system crewmember, but when I passed the physical and medical examinations at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) they informed me that they had given the last spot away the day before. I was crushed, but I think it was a blessing in disguise.”

Instead, I chose 42A, a human resource specialist, which goes hand-in-hand with what I want to learn about in the civilian world.”

Richardson would go on to graduate basic training with honors.

“Basic Training was everything I thought it was going to be: physically and mentally challenging. I liked the structure of basic training instilled and the means to push myself harder than I ever have before. I was honored to

receive the title of soldier leader of the cycle of my company,” said Richardson.

The senior is very involved in various school activities at school. She plays both seasons of softball and is a member of the basketball and track teams.  Richardson also serves as STUCO class president and treasurer. Richardson said she plans on using her education benefits from the National Guard to attend Cameron University next fall.

“What I love most about serving is knowing that I am a part of something much larger than myself and that I am serving a greater purpose,” said Richardson. “My advice to anyone interested in the guard is just to reach out. I have had numerous people reach out to me asking about the guard. I tell everyone that those two months of basic training are worth it for all of the benefits and opportunities it opens up. It may not be easy, but it is definitely rewarding.”