Missouri National Guardsman Gregory Rhodes prepares to rappel down a tower during officer candidate school training at Fort Leonard Wood. |
Inner-city native travels arduous path to become National Guard officerFORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Oct. 8, 2009) — Most people probably don’t know Gregory Rhodes, but his story, which can be considered inspirational, is worth a look. It starts with humble beginnings, continues with a long battle through adversity, and culminates where it is today — with Rhodes as a happily married family man and a graduate of the Missouri National Guard’s officer candidate school. “I understand that everything I have overcome has led me to where I am today. I am a survivor,” Rhodes said. “Even before joining the Missouri Army National Guard, without realizing it, I have been living by the warrior ethos and the Army values. I want to inspire others to do the same. I know that I can and will fulfill that duty as an officer in the United States Army.” Rhodes had to struggle and fight to survive from day one. He was born three months premature in October of 1970, the youngest of six children. Often sick as a child, Rhodes required braces to strengthen his legs due to his premature birth, and by the age of 4, he needed glasses. His home was on Newberry Terrace in inner city St. Louis, a place he calls one of the poorest and rundown neighborhoods around.
Click here to read more on Pulaski County Daily News ...By Matthew J. Wilson/Missouri National Guard Public AffairsFollow the Pulaski County Daily News on Twitter:
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