“Oh my GOD! You were in the Navy!?!?!” This is what I hear from my fellow thespians whenever I disclose that I spent 6 years of my formative early twenties serving in the United States Navy. The next couple of statements are usually, “And now you’re an actor! How on earth does that happen??!?! How was it!!? Did you hate it!!? Did you love it!!? But, you’re a liberal!”
It’s funny because I don’t really think about it that often. But, on days like today (Memorial Day in case any of you live under a rock), Veteran’s Day, and 9-11, I can’t stop thinking about it. How do I juxtapose being a veteran AND an actor? Honestly, in my case, I can’t imagine one without the other.
The Navy taught me so many invaluable lessons. Some of them came easily. Some of them I learned kicking and screaming. I learned that I could push myself past physical and emotional barriers that I thought I had. I learned how to handle myself in a crisis. I learned how to think less about myself and work for the good of a team. I learned how to follow the rules while maintaining my individuality. I learned how to be tough. I learned how to lead by example. I learned how to continue to be creative in a creatively stifling environment. All of these lessons can be applied to a life on the stage.
Some of my proudest and happiest moments are from when I was in the Military. Surviving and succeeding in bootcamp, passing my first physical readiness test, being nominated for Sailor of the Year, winning Volunteer of the Year, serving during 9-11, singing at funerals and memorials, working for Habitat for Humanity, traveling the world, falling in love for the first time…all rival and/or surpass any theatrical highlights…first lead, first cabaret, first good review, one-woman show, etc.
The way I see it is an actor can only portray what his/her experiences and/or imagination will allow. I lost 6 years of my young theatrical life, but I gained a lifetime worth of amazing experiences that few in the theater have. I also was able to challenge my commitment to theater. I joined wanting to be an actor and six years later, with no exposure to theater during, I still wanted to be.
On days like today I hold my head up high. My service to this country is one of the few things I allow myself to be truly proud of. I remember all the amazing people I met that did the same. This is a day to truly honor the sacrifice that our countrymen/women make for this country. Whether it’s just a four year tour, a life-long service, or heaven forbid a loss of life. No matter what your political affiliations, our military is to be celebrated. These are good people trying to do their part and I am honored, thankful, and DAMN PROUD to be among them. Happy Memorial Day everyone!
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