My name is Captain Kenrick Forrester, and I’m a Special Forces officer. As a combat arms guy, I think the biggest perspective is that it’s, you know, leadership. You know, we’re accomplishing several different missions, several different, you know, things at the same time. You know, none of my peers got that. I had peers that went into business, or into marketing, and they all start at the bottom and you know, they’re making copies or they’re trying to learn as they go along, and here I am, day one, and I have 40 guys that work for me. Everything we do is about leadership. It’s not about the weapon, it’s not about the tank, it’s not about the, you know, technical gear that you get at the last moment. It’s about, “How do you get this done in this environment with these guys before the time you need to get it done?” You know, and I have to make sure as a leader that I’m telling them the right thing, giving them the right guidance, and I mean, those are things that you don’t get anywhere else. That’s something that, I think, you know, matured me to the point where I am now so, you know, I know how to lead people across any spectrum.
BECOME AN OFFICER IN THE U.S. ARMY
Military Officer Careers
Only men and women of outstanding character and drive will become U.S. Army Officers. Officers are the managers of the Army. They are tasked with making important decisions in stressful situations, and they are entrusted with the safety of the men and women under their command.
Being an Officer in the U.S. Army will not only serve as a point of pride during your U.S. Army service, but it will also be useful to you in your civilian career. Employers place a high value on the discipline and leadership skills that the Army fosters in its Soldiers. Army Officers are often looked to as prime candidates for management roles and executive positions. From leaders of industry to United States presidents, many began their careers as Army Officers.
THREE WAYS TO SERVE
You will have a choice whether to serve on active duty status, or as a member of the Army Reserve or National Guard. Active duty Soldiers serve full time. You will live on or near a military installation that serves as your unit’s base of operations. You will be paid a full salary and you will have access to all of the benefits of a full-time Soldier.
Serving in the Army Reserve or National Guard is similar to working a part-time job. You can live where you want, focus on your civilian career and stay close to your family. You will also have access to many of the benefits of active duty Soldiers, but your time spent on duty is greatly decreased.
Army Officers embody honor, integrity and personal courage. Learn about who Officers are, and what they do.
Learn MoreExplore the four paths to becoming an Officer. Earn a direct commission, join the Reserve Officer Training Corps, Officer Candidate School or look into the United States Military Academy West Point.
Learn MoreThere are four key paths to becoming an officer in the U.S. Army. Discover which one is right for you.
Learn MoreFind out more about becoming an officer in the U.S. Army, with links to more detailed descriptions on this site.
Learn More