'Make them proud'

POST FALLS — Like many recruits at Saturday’s Future Heroes Fellowship Luncheon, 17-year-old Kayle Berscheid comes from a multigenerational military family.

She’s seen firsthand how service can transform lives, and her job with the Army is teaching her skills that will lead to civilian job opportunities in the future, Berscheid said. 

“I’m setting my future up for success,” Berscheid said.  

Berscheid was among the few dozen young recruits that joined active-duty members, recruiters and veterans for a Saturday afternoon of conversation and camaraderie at American Legion Post 143.  

Post 143 is the largest post in the state with over 700 members, according to adjutant Tim Shaw. 

Lynn Morse, an Air Force veteran, said the camaraderie the recruits will find while serving will stay with them long after they return to civilian life.  

“You know that if anything goes wrong, they have your back,” Morse said. “You don’t get that with civilian jobs.” 

That camaraderie was already blossoming Saturday: Berscheid and fellow recruit Lillee Maxwell had become friends through the recruitment process and sat together Saturday as they joined in conversation with service members — some many years their senior.  

“The companionship, the friendship is important to me,” Maxwell said.  

Coast Guard veteran Terry Pufahl added that serving is also a lesson in self-discovery.  

“If you don’t yet know what you want to get out of life, join,” Pufahl said. “Get a feeling of who you are and what you want to be.” 

In an address to the recruits, Shaw reminded them of the importance of the journey they are about to undertake.  

“The road ahead will challenge you, teach you, and ultimately shape you,” Shaw said. “You are becoming part of a long and proud tradition.” 

Shaw also reminded the recruits that they’re not alone in their journey: their families — and Post 143 — will support them through their service and beyond.  

“Make them proud,” Shaw said.