Veterans Day Profile: Rafael H.

Military Service

US ARMY 555th Engineer Brigade, 14th Engineer Battalion, 570th Sapper Company (10 years)

What led you to join the military?

From a young age I always felt as if the military was the place where I could help make a difference and serve my country.

How has your military service impacted your life?

The Army impacted my life in so many ways, it taught me discipline, loyalty, respect, and selfless service. While serving in the Army I built lifelong friendships with men that I will forever call my brothers.

What was your greatest challenge in the military?

I’d say the greatest challenge would have to be the separation from my wife and kids over three deployments to Afghanistan.

What is something you learned in the military that you still use today?

Some skills I learned in the military that I still use today would be having the ability to read ppl and interact with all types of individuals. Another awesome skill is the ability to function and make critical decisions in high stress situations. I can also make a gourmet meal out of an MRE “LOL” just stay away from the crackers unless you have a gallon of water.