Personal Narrative Of An Irresponsible 19-Year-Old

a. When I was 19 years old, I was arrested and charged with: “Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) / Driving After Consuming < 21”. I was arrested in my driveway located at 311 Pearson Circle, Newport, NC, 28570 on 02 February 2008. At the time of my arrest, my blood alcohol content (BAC) was listed at .16. The circumstances surrounding the events that took place on the evening of 02 February 2008 do not excuse nor exonerate my behavior. However, I will give a valent effort to describe the rational of an irresponsible 19-year-old. On the night of my arrest, it had been the first time in over a year I had been back “home” since the death of my father (April 2007). I had a friend that lived approximately 3 miles from my father’s home (311 Pearson

Since the conclusion of my court date 10 years ago, I have been able to reflect on this event and pondered how I would let it define me. I have taken away valuable lessons about character traits and qualities such as selfishness, willpower, discipline and self-motivation. The conviction and arrest made me critically self-aware and allowed me to transition into priceless personal reflection when I returned to my unit. This personal reflection was critical in my ability to process everything I had gone through and allowed me to grow from it. I spent most of my time reflecting on the negative aspects of my character that were exposed after the arrest. The character trait that I reflected upon the most was selfishness. After 10 years of reflection, I believe this trait stemmed from immaturity and a lack of complete understanding of the impact my actions could have on others. I feel ashamed when I reflect on my behavior, but also thankful because it allowed me to view myself at my worst and most reckless. Additionally, without having been arrested, I might not have learned this life lesson at such an early age. The last 10 years have also granted me time to reflect about the positive attributes I have learned about, such as willpower, discipline and self-motivation. It showed me that these positive traits were stronger than I even thought possible. Being charged with a DWI was a wake-up call and prompted life changing events that have carried over into my adult life. I knew

I served my initial enlistment, re-enlisted twice and extended one time, completing all enlistments and requirements honorably. I have attempted to be proactive in my military service and have done so at any given opportunity. I have done this most recently by volunteering as a member of the Ft. Sill Color Guard, which executed over 15 intraservice (Marine, Navy, Airforce) ceremonies. These ceremonies ranged from retirement ceremonies, change of command ceremonies, military balls, award banquets and carrying the National Colors during the Armed Forces Day parade. I have attempted to be a model Noncommissioned Officer during multiple deployments and by working honorably with NATO allies during my time stationed aboard. I worked with the Afghan Uniform Police, the Afghan National Army, the Turkish Army, the Bundeswehr, and other National agencies, fostering key relationships when I was called upon. Regardless if my application for an ETP is approved, I will continue to strive for excellence and improve organizations in any way I can along the