Following in the footsteps of his grandfather and uncles, Phillip Jones decided to join the Oklahoma National guard while he was a senior at Ada High School. Now a freshman majoring in Math at East Central University, Jones is focused on his academics and furthering his military career after college.

“I decided I wanted to join the military right at the end of senior year. I chose National Guard because it was a way to get an education but also serve my country at the same time,” said Jones. 

As a student at East Central University, Jones is part of a program that will help fast-track his career and allow him to become an officer after he graduates. 

“I am in a program at East Central University called the GOLD Program, which is an officer development program. I will ultimately be given my job once I commission as a 2nd Lieutenant,” said Jones. “The biggest appeal to me that lured me into joining the National Guard was the fact that I could obtain a college degree for free, while getting paid and also serving my country all at once.” 

As a high school student, Jones went through the recruiting process, which can be different for everyone. 

“The recruiting process for me was a little odd. All through high school when recruiters would come to school and talk to us, I would always just tune them out because I knew I didn’t want to join. Once I heard about all of the benefits of the National Guard and about the GOLD program, I decided pretty much on my own that I wanted to join,” said Jones. “One of the biggest things I love about serving is being part of a team and a family. It reminds me a lot of my high school sports days.”

In his free time Jones said he enjoys spending time with his family and playing soccer.