Local woman stars in Army recruitment video
But her story began far away from the field of battle, it started on the balance beams and uneven bars of Luzerne County.
'If you learn how to be all that you can be in one situation in life you can do it in all of them,' said Sugarloaf native, Lt. Bryanna Hamilton.
The new army reserve video campaign is called 'It's your time', and the star is a Sugarloaf native and gymnastics instructor named First Lt. Bryanna Hamilton.
The video shows how soldiers are using their skills and expertise to impact reservists, but it also shows how resiliency and hard work can motivate others, an attitude first Lt. Hamilton exemplifies.
'Perseverance has always been a characteristic through my life. Whether it was when I was a gymnast or in the army, when things have not gone to plan, but there's always a way to get back up no matter what happens to you to find another avenue to be successful in life,' voiced Hamilton.
Hamilton is from a military family. Her father is a retired Colonel and both her grandfathers served.
She was a high level gymnast as a teen, but an injury ended her competitive career. She began med school at Penn State, eventually enlisting in the reserves.
Her athletic setback became her motivation, and now she's a USA gymnastics coach, teaching students the importance of bouncing back, especially after a fall.
'I have two daughters and one son and both of my daughters are gymnasts,' said Hamilton.
Her entire family is in the video. It shows Lt. Hamilton coaching her oldest daughter for the Jr. Olympics. She says that pride in family was passed down from her military dad.
'Following in his footsteps and trying to make him proud and maybe a little friendly father/daughter competition. Trying to fill his shoes if I can get there someday. Definitely something I've always taken pride in,' expressed Hamilton.
Lt. Hamilton gets back to NEPA periodically, and has a message for her family and friends back home.
'I love the food, I miss you guys so much. Can't wait to come home and see you all,' voiced Hamilton.
Lt. Hamilton is currently in Salt Lake City working as a military police officer and company commander, recently helping at detention facilities from Fort Leavenworth to Guantanamo Bay.
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