Arapaho-Butler High School senior Joseph Nelson knew his family had a history of serving in the military. Nelson said his grandfather served in the military as a mechanic.

“My grandpa was a mechanic in the Air Force from 1957 to 1961,” said Nelson. “As a member of the Oklahoma National Guard, I will be serving as an Infantryman.”

Nelson is a member of the varsity basketball team under the leadership of head coach Orsan Jubara. But basketball isn’t the only thing Nelson is involved in at school.

“I play basketball and I’m involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes,” said Nelson. “As a student-athlete, playing basketball and lifting weights have helped me prepare for basic training.”

Nelson said he joined the Oklahoma National Guard because he has always had a desire to serve his country.

“I joined the Oklahoma National Guard because I’ve wanted to be in the military since I was little,” said Nelson. “I will be serving with Bravo Company 179th Infantry Brigade at Vance Air Force Base in Enid.”

His plan is to use the benefits the National guard provides its members to attend college tuition-free. But for Nelson, making the military a career is at the top of his priority list.

“I plan on serving in the Army for 20 years before retiring,” said Nelson.

In his free time, the future Infantryman said he enjoys playing basketball, video games and hanging out with his friends.