Adjusting to school after war

Kyle Jones

Aug. 19 marked the official end of the U.S. combat mission in Iraq. A vast majority of troops have now left the country, most headed either home to the U.S. or to continue the fight against terror in Afghanistan. With many troops struggling to readjust from their former combat duties to normal everyday life in the United States a large number have opted to take advantage of the G.I. Bill of Rights. It provides support for soldiers who wish to further their education.

Since 9/11, the G.I. Bill has been greatly modified.

Pfc. Matthew Burch returned home this past year. He is now attending MCC.

He described his own experience overseas as “trying, harrowing, and wonderful.”

“I put more sweat and blood into my work than I ever knew I had in me, saw a lot of crazy stuff, met people from all walks of life, I did it all. At times I honestly couldn’t even imagine what going back to civilian life could possibly be like,” said Burch.

Since his return home, he has completed summer school courses at MCC and is currently working on earning his associate’s degree. He has stated that while his school is difficult, his military experiences have strengthened him and have served as stepping stones on the road to achieving his dream of owning a gentleman’s club in south Phoenix.

While the Iraq combat mission may have ended, the war in Afghanistan continues.

Lance Cpl. John Gregory is continuing his enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps, and is currently stationed in San Diego. After several tours in Afghanistan, he is looking forward to continuing his education.

“I am extremely proud to serve my country and its people, but I am also eager to join the ranks of everyday civilians, gain a greater education, and become a more productive member of society and thanks to the post-9/11 G.I. Bill, I’m able to do just that,” said Gregory.

He stated that many people forget that soldiers are still people. After putting his own life on the line, while making less than $40,000 a year, the G.I. Bill is a godsend to him and thousands of others, stated Gregory.

  • Mesa Legend Staff

    These are archived stories from Mesa Legend editions before Fall 2018. See article for corresponding author.

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