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STORIES

Mia Garcia

Veteran

Mia Garcia
MY connection to 9/11

  • I joined the military after 9/11

Where were you when you first heard about or saw the 9/11 terrorist attacks?

I was 18 years old and sitting in Biology class in junior college. Ironically I had visited the recruiters office two weeks before September 11, 2001, and I had already sworn in before the terrorist acts transpired. I had not told my parents that I had joined the military and I remember going home and telling them the news. My ship date for boot camp was in late November 2001 and I remember feeling both nervous and excited about the Marine Corps that I was about to join and the mission ahead.

How did the events of that day shape your life and inspire your service to this country?

After I witnessed what happened on TV I felt angry. I was ready to go fight! The Marine Corps recruiters did a really good job of keeping the poolees pumped up until we shipped out.

What are you excited to contribute to your community, however you define it, for the next 20 years?

I am excited to continue my service in a different capacity. I am honored to serve alongside many veterans with a shared mission - ensuring the veterans in our community are set up for success and thrive.

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