by Madison Peoples, Oil and Gas, Class of 2026

Did you know that, according to USAFacts.org, in the 1980s, a little over 800 thousand enlisted to serve our country, but today, the number of soldiers who make it through basic training has decreased by 73%. It just so happens that one of the few is from right here at Lawrence County Career and Technical Center. If you didn’t hear, we are mighty proud of our very own Shane Grannis, Veterinary Assistant senior, who completed his 10-week Basic Combat Training over the summer at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in the early-enlistment program.

For Shane, now PV2 Shane Grannis, being in the U.S. Army means more than just serving his country; it means following his family's footsteps. Both Shane's father and brother served in the Army, so when Shane is serving his country, he is thinking of the people back home who have had these experiences as well.

When asked what motivated him to complete Basic Training early – in the summer between his junior and senior years, Shane states, “I wanted to get a hold on my life, as well as prepare myself for college.” Now financially prepared for college, Shane plans to use the GI bill he received from the army to pay for his college tuition.

Everyone's experience at Basic Training is different, but one thing Shane and many others probably have in common is the struggle with being away from home for so long. However, while they are away missing home, they have some amazing experiences. For Shane, his favorite part was learning good teamwork and discipline. While there, he learned many skills and was tested in many ways. However, one moment he was most proud of himself for was the Confidence Obstacle where his endurance, stamina, and willpower were tested.

When Shane was asked, “What was something you have learned at basic training that you will carry with you throughout your life?”

His answer was “. . . that practice makes better.” This couldn’t be more true. Many say practice makes perfect, but truly what is ‘perfect”? Perfection is different for everyone and implies that a person is done learning. This couldn’t be further from the truth for Shane. “You will always continue learning throughout your life,” Grannis states. “Saying, ‘Practice makes better,’ allows for growth.”

We here at LCCTC are proud of Shane for his choice to accept the challenge of early enlistment and the choices he will continue to make throughout his life after graduation. We also wish to thank all veterans who have valiantly served.

According to CombatWounded.org, 84% of veterans say that the American public has “little awareness” of the challenges facing them and their families. These challenges can be as small as spending a little time away from home from time to time and as large as those unspeakable. This is why it is important to thank a veteran for their service – not just on Veterans Day but every day.

For Grannis, we thank him for his commitment to our country and for his future service yet to come. After graduating high school, Shane plans to attend college for veterinary schooling and hopes to become an animal care specialist while in active duty. Like many who are also thinking of putting themselves out there to serve their country, they both appreciate and admire Shane’s level of commitment and care for what he has done and for what he will do as a soldier in the US Army.

So this year on Veterans Day, find a way to thank the veterans for their service to America. Maybe spend time with a veteran and let them know you care. Who knows – maybe you’ll benefit from their wisdom and maybe – just maybe, you’ll make their day just a little bit better.