11 Students join the Minnesota Army National Guard

PROCTOR, Minn. — Students that chose to serve their country were honored at Proctor High School today.

11 Students were cheered on by their family and friends as they officially signed up for the Minnesota National Guard.

Nationally, less than 1 percent of high school students join military service, but those 11 students make up 5 percent of the senior class.

Proctors has a program that helps students explore their options after high school, which might contribute to the higher number of students signing up.

“I can be still at home, and I can go to college while serving. Just was, like, instead of having to always online, I could do it in person college. I really liked that, so I joined the Army National Guard.” said Terrence Avey, Student, signed up for the Minnesota National Guard.

Avey plans to go to LSC for nursing and to do Officer School to for the Army.

The National Guard is only a part time commitment.

Service members work only 1 weekend a month, two during the summer.

This makes it easy for them to serve while being full time students.

“I think it means the selfless service. It does mean that you’re doing something that’s bigger than yourself, and you’re saying yes to a very large commitment, but still being able to support your community, and, you know, you’re still go to school, education and things like that.” said Staff Sergeant Bryce Alander, Minnesota Army National Guard.

The National Guard has over 130 positions to fit the variety of interests students have.

Many students sign up to build their resume, help cover education costs, and to serve their community and country.