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Show PERSONALITY Welcome to summer cruise training in San Diego, CA. PHOTO CREDIT Chris Williams Beep, beep, beep... Its 4:30 a.m. and time for 19-year-- old Chris Williams to wake up, get ready and be on time for ROTC physical training, a college program that prepares future commissioned officers for the U.S. Armed Forces. Williams is a sophomore history major and squad leader for the ROTC. As a squad leader, Williams job is to keep track of his squad members. At the same time, he must provide leadership and help them grow both as a person and as a member of the army. The purpose of physical training is to focus on helping newcomers in the ROTC program build the necessary cardio and strength level needed to reach the required physical condition for the army. Physical training usually starts at 6:00 a.m. and continues for an hour. I try to be someone that everyone respects and trusts, not fears or is intimidated by, Williams said. Williams decision to join the ROTC program was strongly influenced by his father, who was also in the ROTC program and served in the U.S. Army for 27 years. I always wanted to be someone like my father ever since I was a kid, Williams said. Williams is the squad leader who values leading by example. He always does his best to involve himself in activities with his team members. He often asks for feedback that could positively impact the way he leads individuals or the entire team. What works for me might not work for others, so I want to know what others think, Williams said. Williams strives for improvement and progression not only as a member of the military, but also in everyday life. Being a squad leader, Williams found that it is challenging to lead older members. However, he has listed three things that keep himself not only doing a good job, but also making the most out of being a squad leader- - to be calm, cool and collected. Williams believes that as a squad leader, he needs to be someone that people look up to. Its important to set an example for the newcomers so they know what it takes to be a leader in the military. Williams goal in ROTC this year is to focus on improving his level of fitness, as well as developing his leadership skills. Williams aspiration is to eventually become a pilot for the Marine Corps. Military isnt a life for everyone, Williams said. You have to have the desire to be here. It has to come from yourself. He dismisses the alarm clock and starts his day. Williams at the summer cruise training this year, 201 PHOTO CREDITS Williams' teammate in ROTC |