Tayler Hoggan is no ordinary senior. He juggles school, friends, work, and now, since the beginning of his senior year, the National Guard.
“It’s a family thing. Both my grandfather and dad were in the National Guard. Every man in my family has served in the military. And I wanted to serve my country,” Hoggan said.
Joining the military while in high school can be challenging, but it’s been good to Hoggan.
“It’s pretty okay so far. Being able to sign up now allows me to go and train on the weekends. Therefore, I’m better prepared for basic, advanced and airborne training, and Special Forces.”
However, the military is not his whole life. Hoggan also enjoys dirtbiking, exercising, working at a job and at school, spending time with family, and hanging out with his friends.
“He’s a loyal, funny and spontaneous kid,” said Cody Evans, Hoggan’s “battle buddy.” “He’s passionate about the army, and it makes him happy. I think it was the right choice for him.”
Being in the military can be time consuming, but Hoggan has learned how to keep his life balanced. He stays friends with people outside of the military, yet he still enjoys his high school experience.
“You hold on to your true self, yet at the same time, you develop discipline and self-etiquette,” Hoggan said.
Sergeant First Class Jeremy Dimond, Hoggan’s recruiter, said that Hoggan has a promising career in the military ahead of him. He steps up and takes charge when needed, and he doesn’t leave anyone behind.
“He’s motivated, steps up, volunteers, and I see him as a leader,” said Dimond.
Hoggan is passionate about the military and said he decided to join because he wanted to protect his family, friends, and all other citizens in the United States.
“I’m nothing special. I’m not looking to be a hero. [I’m] just some normal kid who wanted to serve my country,” Hoggan said.