I did….. what???

Originally uploaded by Anthony J. Martinez

Yes, this photo is in fact real. That is me, with my right hand raised, and for the second time in my life taking an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States (and that of Texas) against all enemies foreign and domestic.

Now, why… why on EARTH would someone who has clearly been as eager to get out of the Army re-enlist and join the Texas National Guard? Did you really think I’d leave you hanging?

Here’s the deal, I enlisted in the regular Army on March 18th, 2003. As such, I had an obligation for military service that did not fully end until March 17th, 2011. There are some 31 months between July 30th, 2008, and March 17th, 2011. During those 31 months, I could, at any time, have been called back to active duty, and sent right back to that lovely sand filled place where things routinely explode. Not quite what I have in mind.

By transitioning to the National Guard, I’ve reduced my remaining Military Service Obligation from 31mo to 15mo, all the while making myself non-deployable for 24mo. If you’re paying attention, you’ll note that I can not be federally mobilized for 9 months longer than I even have left in service. In short, I’m done with deploying. Hurricane relief, stuff like that – sure, why not. My whole family is from the Texas coast, so I’d be there anyway.

And that’s that.