Meet freshman Keenan Cromshaw, a member of UNC’s Army ROTC
‘I want to defend all the values that I love about this country’
November 11 is nationally recognized as Veterans Day, a day in which we honor those who served in a military branch for the United States.
The Tab UNC spoke with freshman Biology major Keenan Cromshaw, a member of UNC’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Though not yet a veteran, Keenan shares his thoughts on the military, UNC ROTC and what today means to him.
What branch of the ROTC are you a part of?
The Army.
What made you decide to join the ROTC?
I really just liked the idea of service to my country. I want to defend all the values that I love about this country, because it’s special to me. One of the values that sticks out to me is hard work, and in general getting ahead in this society.
What does Veterans Day mean to you?
It’s one of the more proud days. To me, it’s a reflection on all the things the military has done for this nation. They’ve defended freedom and they will continue to do that. To me, they are the number one beacon of hope in the world.
Do you have any family or friends who are veterans or in the military currently?
My grandpa was in the Army and he earned a bronze star in World War II. I wouldn’t say it was the deciding factor for me to join the ROTC, but it certainly helped. My dad is really interested in the military as well.
Who has influenced your decision to join the Army ROTC?
My JROTC colonel was an Army colonel. He basically told me about all of the opportunities that the Army had. I also liked the idea of staying on land.
What are you most looking forward to in your future with the military?
Probably the pride and honor associated with serving.
What do you fear in a future with the military?
If I do get deployed, being on the front lines. If I have a family, it would be hard being away from them. A lot of times, military members don’t get to spend as much time with their families as they would like.
Let’s make sure we take the time to honor our veterans today. Thank them for their service. Happy Veterans Day to all veterans from The Tab UNC.