Pine Plains, NY, native Troi Cookingham enlisted in the Army in September of 2020. “My uncle served in the Army and passed away in 2015. I knew it was something that I had to do. When I enlisted, I had this surreal, ‘What did I just do?’ type of feeling. However, I felt such pride and a feeling of determination,” Troi said. 

Troi chose to join the Army because he had multiple family members who previously served in that branch, including both of his uncles. In total, Troi served for three and a half years. He completed a training rotation overseas for nine months and also served at Fort Campbell in Kentucky, which is the second-largest military base in the United States. 

During his service, Troi completed a lot of joint training with other countries, and he even had the privilege of training other soldiers. Like many other soldiers, Troi agrees that the camaraderie is the most memorable part of serving: “The brotherhood that is developed with your fellow soldiers is truly special.”

Coming home and adjusting to civilian life 

Troi completed his military service on March 28 of 2024 and shared that coming home was the hardest part of the journey. “Adjusting back to civilian life was difficult and changing my mindset has been a challenge.” 

Communicating his service to his family members hasn’t been easy either. Troi noted that he can only tell those he cares about “half-truths,” and that it is difficult to explain his feelings and experiences to people who have not served in the military. “It is a unique feeling that is not easily understood.” 

Overall, Troi shared that the military has shaped him into who he is today. Serving has not only given him a high sense of situational awareness and maturity, but the skills that he learned in the military will stick with him forever. “My teamwork skills that I developed will always benefit me in any job setting going forward.” 

When asked if there is anything that Troi wishes civilians understood about military service, he said, “It has gone unnoticed that there are currently troops overseas in active war zones. So, every day and every night while you’re enjoying your freedom, take a second to thank those who go unnoticed every day.” 

He also took a moment to acknowledge active service members and veterans who struggle with mental health, PTSD, and other conditions. “On average, 22 service members per day commit suicide. I want to take a moment to recognize all of those who are not only battling a war for our country, but a war within their own head. God bless our troops and God bless America.” 

To learn more about the U.S. Army, visit their website here.