Behind the Uniform: Spc. Patrick Wesley

Spc. Patrick Wesley a health care specialist

Spc. Patrick Wesley, a health care specialist in the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment, who has served about six years in the military.

Why did you join the Maryland National Guard?

“I joined the Maryland National Guard for a good experience, I wanted to be a medic. I wanted to be in a great atmosphere of people, I love people.”

How does it feel to work in the community during this time?

“It is something that I wanted to do since I’ve joined the National Guard, I feel useful. I feel like I’m actually doing something for the community. I know in the civilian world, I’m an EMT. People can see what they’re paying for when they see our government working for them and I am highly appreciative to be a part of that.”

What is your favorite part about being a service member?

“Seeing my mentors, people that I look up to and see how they will, no matter what, still take the time out of their busy schedule to make sure you’re doing what you need to do to be a better soldier for yourself. I like that, I respect that.”

What are you doing to deal with stress?

“I work out. My wife is very motivating, she is my support team, she’s my best friend. Also, my puppy Sadie. Anytime I go home she’s there, she’s waiting for me. I wouldn’t say I’m under a whole lot of stress, because I don’t really have anything to be stressful about.”

What is the next thing for you after this mission is over?

“I don’t know if I’m going to go back to my EMS job or if I am going to follow further activities. I am going to extend my military contract, still deciding on what I want to do. So looking into different military occupational specialties that I can go into to further my career in the military.”

A member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment.