Jason Lorentz’s Early Aspirations
Seaman Apprentice Jason Lorentz, at just 25 years old, has emerged as a star of the Navy, clinching the prestigious Military Excellence Award after completing the Future Sailor Prep Course and basic training at Recruit Training Command.
This accolade is awarded to the recruit who showcases exceptional enthusiasm, dedication, military conduct, and teamwork, according to Navy guidelines.
Lorentz’s story is one of determination and resilience, beginning in his hometown of Payson, Arizona.
From a young age, he dreamed of serving in the Navy, yet he faced significant hurdles along the way.
During high school, he found it challenging to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, and ultimately, he set aside his aspirations of military life for several years.
The tide turned when the Navy provided him with another chance to improve his test scores.
Overcoming Challenges
Before embarking on this new phase, Lorentz was working for the Arizona Department of Transportation.
However, the call of duty was strong.
He took a proactive step by enrolling in the Future Sailor Prep Course, a three-week program designed to hone recruits’ verbal and math skills to help them succeed on the ASVAB.
Though his first attempt at the course had yielded little improvement, Lorentz was resolute in his commitment as he returned to Recruit Training Command, determined to boost his ASVAB score by ten points.
This time, he threw himself wholeheartedly into his studies.
His efforts bore fruit when he saw a significant rise in his scores, allowing him to switch career tracks from an aviation boatswain’s mate to a hospital corpsman.
Acknowledgments and Growth
His success came as a surprise when he was announced as the recipient of the Military Excellence Award upon finishing basic training.
Lorentz attributes his achievement to the unwavering support from his family, friends, and fellow recruits, all of whom played a vital role in his journey.
As he moves forward in his military career, he promises to honor those who stood by him.
He also expressed heartfelt thanks to his recruit division commanders for their guidance and support throughout boot camp.
Reflecting on his experience, Lorentz highlighted the toughest challenges he faced, particularly the transition to the regimented military lifestyle.
The structured routine, dictating everything from mealtimes to sleep schedules and exercise, was initially a shock.
Yet, he has come to respect and understand the system that pushed him to adapt and grow.
In the end, he appreciates the training and direction that shaped him into the sailor he is today.
Source: Militarytimes