National and local communities coordinate celebrations for Veterans Day each year on Nov. 11 to thank and honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Although West High students are not yet veterans, many plan to join the 1.32 million active-duty service members currently serving the United States. 

Due to military recruitment at school, students at West High are often inspired to enlist in the armed forces, including the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard. Recruiters can reserve a table at lunch once a month to have conversations with students interested in the armed forces. Often, recruiters hand out keepsakes like stickers and water bottles and hold friendly pull-up competitions for students to participate in and watch. College and career counselor Chris Lorenz often coordinates with recruiters and students with an interest in the career pathway.

“[Student] interest in a career in the military has remained steady, if not increased somewhat. I personally believe there are some good career opportunities in the military. Frankly, some students need [the military because they] are directionless; the military provides [structure] for them and a pathway to learn skills and be successful,” Lorenz said.

Like college fairs, Lorenz also invites students to sign up for a military panel, where he can further gauge student interest. Usually, 30 to 40 students from each grade level sign up for the panel event. 

Generally, five to 10 West High students from each graduating class enter the military after high school, whether serving as an active-duty member or joining a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program on their college campus. Some ROTC programs offer scholarships and living stipends, preparing students for future career endeavors while providing support. 

Even though there are a plethora of opportunities for students interested in the armed forces after college, many are often scared away by the rigor of service. Still, the military provides other benefits.

“The military is appealing [because students] go through training and things are mapped out for some years. Some kids don’t have parental support to pay for college. [The] military is a way to help afford that and pay for it. The military is an excellent option for kids to help pay for school,” Lorenz said. 

Senior Alexander Lewinski wasn’t persuaded to join the military due to the low cost; instead, he felt a calling to serve. Since he was a freshman, Lewinski planned to serve in the armed forces after high school.

“My desire to go [into] the military [was because] I’ve always felt a duty to serve other people. For me, it’s been protecting other people in a way that’s bigger than myself,” Lewinski said. 

Lewinski often conversed with the recruiters at school and felt a strong connection to their mission. Through the recruiting process, Lewinski learned of the enormity of the military and truly understood the options he had for his future. 

Hundreds of West High alumni and family members have served in the military, and many more plan to serve. Veterans Day gives the school community a chance to honor the commitments and contributions that have been made for the safety of United States citizens. The annual activities, including Principal John McCabe’s commemoration of Veterans’ Day on the school loudspeaker, bring students, staff and veterans together to share and reflect on what service means.

“[If you want to go into the military], talk to somebody knowledgeable about it. The military is a great way to learn service, teamwork and general rights. In the military, [I hope] to lead a team effectively [with] a good group of guys and forge my own path,” Lewinski said.