When Arapaho-Butler High School senior Gerardo Suniga decided to join the Oklahoma National Guard, he was still in school and would spend some of his summer between his junior and senior year in basic training. For Suniga, the decision was an easy one. 

“I needed the benefits the National Guard has to offer but didn’t want to go active duty. This gives me the opportunity to stay close to home,” said Suniga. 

The unit he will serve with is located in the Oklahoma City area and Suniga will serve as a 92F MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) or Petroleum Supply Specialist. The senior said being in the military is somewhat of a family tradition as one of his extended family members served years before. 

“My uncle was in the United States Marine Corps. He was an infantryman,” said Suniga. 

Joining the Oklahoma National Guard has allowed Suniga to carry on that family tradition of serves in the Armed Forces. It also brings him many benefits like free college tuition, health care and life insurance. For Suniga and many other recruits who are joining the National Guard, the fee college tuition plays a big role in their decision to serve. Coming out of college with no debt is very appealing. 

Suniga said he is currently focused on his senior year and making the most of the opportunities his new school affords him. He will continue to serve once a month while in school and attend AIT (Advanced Individual Training) after he graduates. 

For more information on the National Guard in Oklahoma visit, www. https://ok.ng.mil