Quest for Excellence

In the quest for excellence as a standard, my goal has always been to obtain perfection. Perhaps for this reason, I have decided to pursue a level of responsibility higher than those I attained in the past. After demonstrating mastery of past military responsibilities, I feel that it is time to meet the challenge of a higher level. The Officer's Candidate Program offers new challenges, new standards and instruction. This course of instruction will encompass my decision-making, leadership, technical and tactical proficiency skills.

Events of the past have led me to believe that my path has been drawn for me throughout my life. Born in Winston-Salem , North Carolina in 1970, I view my childhood as a time in which I witnessed the nation under go a revolution of leniency. The counter culture of the time bred individuals who were non-conforming and relaxed in attitude. At a time when people were enjoying luxury, my mother, a single parent was working alone to provide me with the basics. As an only child, I managed to see life from a broad perspective. Not only was I the "man" of the house, I was the companion of a strong woman. My admiration for the strength of my mother led me to seek the same qualities in my spouse. On February 12, 1994, I married my significant other, and as a result of our union, we bore a son-a legacy I hope will follow my footsteps. Realizing the obligations involved in parenthood, I could only hope to be a model whose footsteps my son would be proud to follow. This experience has led me to the conclusion that I am responsible for the choices I make in my life. Striving for perfection began.

One of the choices I made early in my life that has influenced my sense of value and mission was the choice to enter the Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corp. This is where I gained most of my knowledge of military history, protocol, and pride for serving my country. A testament to my dedication was seen through my rapid progression through the ranks. Always promoted ahead of my contemporaries, I reached the rank of Lt. Colonel. After assuming the responsibilities of battalion commander, I was able to apply my leadership skills to other aspects of my occupational endeavor. I joined the Army in September of 1988 and began active participation in the career of my choice.

- SGT KEYMARTHANESE RASHAD-ALI