1LT Meredith Teeples, U.S. Army

I am originally from a small town in South Carolina. I grew up as an active kid. I rode horses and competed in dressage and eventing. I also participated in JROTC during high school, where my interest in the military increased. I also ran cross-country in high school. I have been in the military, both enlisted and officer, for almost 10 years

My grandfather was drafted during the Korean War and served for 2 years. He was my first inspiration to join the military. I also enjoyed the two years of my high school JROTC classes, orienteering, and local JROTC competitions.

Shortly after I was commissioned as an officer, my grandfather stood up in front of my family at a Thanksgiving dinner to let them know my accomplishments, and how proud he is of me. His voice cracked and his eyes got a little watery as he explained that I was a First Lieutenant in and had completed my master’s degree to be a Military (and civilian) Physician Assistant. I know having a granddaughter that has had a successful military career means a lot to him, especially given that he is a Korean Vet. I know that my family was doubtful when I first joined the military at 18 years old, but it’s always nice to know that they are proud of me.

When I was 18, I joined for the change of pace in life, and the challenge of joining the medical field. It’s an honorary job being part of the military no matter what your MOS or AOC is, and at 18, let’s be honest. You think, but you don’t really know what you’re getting yourself into. Today, after almost ten years of service, I’ve learned a lot about the military and myself. It’s a way of life that you get accustomed to no matter if you’re active duty or having to show up to drill on your weekends off. It’s just something that you do. It’s great health insurance. It’s an extended family. It’s an ability to travel. It’s frustrating at times. Many times. And yes, it’s always a great honor to be able to say “I’m qualified and proud to wear this uniform.”

When I was 18, I spent one semester at the local college taking classes that I had no interest in and with no direction of what I wanted my future career to be. I didn’t have the confidence to think that I was smart enough to pursue a medical career at that time. During this first semester of college, I visited an Army recruiter whom encouraged me to take the ASVAB and a physical at MEPS. The day I left, my father told me “You better not sign any contracts, I don’t want to lose my daughter.” When I returned, I had signed up to be a 68W (Heath Care Specialist, i.e. Medic) in the Army Reserve. My father was less than thrilled, and my response “It’s ok Dad, it’s only part-time, and the unit is close by anyways." I am currently 65D, Physician Assistant, previously 68W (Medic), and was also a civilian paramedic at a busy 911 system

I want to look back and know that I did the best I could with my career and could be a positive role model for future soldiers. I was inspired by many successful and talented leaders during my journey with the military to accomplish my goals even when I doubted myself. I spent more years in school and training than I really cared to. Now is the phase in my career where I not only treat patients and become the best provider I can, but also pay it forward by helping and inspiring others to accomplish their goals.