“When I first got out of the military I partied for at least 30 days straight,” RTD diesel mechanic Drake Tran said. “After I got that out of my system, I went back to college at Mesa State (now Colorado Mesa University) for a couple of semesters and worked odd jobs to save up money to attend helicopter flight school/training.”

Eventually, Tran joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC), where he had two military occupational specialties (MOS). 

One MOS was Field Radio Repairman, where his job was to repair electronic communications equipment while under extreme duress. His second and favorite MOS was Parachutist, where he jumped out of, as he says, “a perfectly good aircraft by choice to earn hazardous duty pay.

“I attained the rank of Corporal (E-4) during my active military career. I was assigned to a unit known as ANGLICO (Air and Naval Gunfire Liaison Company), where I was typically assigned to foreign nations and Army airborne units to support their ability to wage war on the battlefield, by coordinating air-strikes from ground support aircraft, helicopter gunships and naval artillery when and where applicable.”

Tran had powerful moments and memories while serving. “I was able to travel all over the world, and even made lifelong friends while I was in the Marines.” 

Tran also had moments that were powerful, though not in the same way. “I can tell you that during my four years of service in the USMC, I’ve easily consumed enough beer to kill a medium to large size elephant. Elephants that size usually go about 11,000 pounds, so that is quite an accomplishment that I’m proud of, and I did it all while having served the greatest country in the world.”

Drake is now in his forties with a family, and says that he absolutely loves his job.