Ardmore High School senior Gabe Presley is a track and cross-country runner for the Tigers. Presley has competed all four years of high school. He’s also a new member of the Oklahoma National Guard. The decision to join the National Guard was an easy one for Presley. Attending college and being close to home were two priorities that the National Guard could accommodate.
“I want to stay close to home while I attend college and serve. It’s also a great way to serve my community and give back to it,” said Presley.
Presley is following in the footsteps of previous family members who served in the United States military.
“I’m very proud of my family’s service. My grandma and grandpa are retired U.S. Marines and served during Vietnam. My great grandfather was in the U.S. Navy and fought at the battle of Midway, and my great-great-grandfather was a doughboy in WWI. My great grandpa served in Korea as a U.S. Marine,” said Presley. “My family was initially very nervous but also very proud. They are still very excited just as I am now to see where my career goes.”
Presley did consider other branches of the service before deciding on the National Guard.
“I did originally look at the U.S. Navy, but the National Guard had the job I wanted and the benefits better suited me and the career I want to pursue. The Guard also puts a big emphasis on education and furthering your career,” said Presley.
Attending college is important to Presley and his plan is to take advantage of the in-state tuition waiver. He also wants to pursue a longer career in the Guard after graduating from college.
“I plan on becoming an officer and attending the University of Central Oklahoma to study political science with a focus on global politics,” said Presley. “I’m very excited to continue working for the Guard and serving my country. I’m ready to see what the future holds for me. Plus being able to retire early in my life with full military benefits is very beneficial.”
Presley will serve with the 1st Battalion of the 158th Field Artillery unit based at Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma. His job, 13M MLRS or crewmember on the Multiple Launch Rocket System which provides rocket artillery support for ground troops and armor.
In his free time Presley enjoys working out and lifting weights when he’s not hanging out with friends. Presley offers up some advice to anyone kicking around the idea of joining the military.
“Anyone who is interested in serving their community and nation should pursue it and look into their options to see what would work best for them. The National Guard will always be here for strong men and women who want to serve. See your ideas come to fruition, and as my role model David Goggins says, “Stay hard!”
