MOUNT ROLLAND TRAINING SITE, Senegal –
Name: Staff Sgt. Andralee M. Strassner
Military Specialty: 68W-Medic, 12W-Carpentry/masonry, 56M-Chaplain Assistant
Years of Service: 14
Unit: Detachment 1, Garrison Support Command
Hometown: Raymond, NH.
Current Town: Raymond, NH.
High School/Graduation Year: 2003
College/Graduation: McIntosh College, 2006
Q. Why did you join the Vermont National Guard?
A. After serving in the U.S. Army Reserve for almost 9 years, I felt that the Vermont Army National Guard had better career opportunities and experience that I was looking for.
Q. What do you do in the Vermont National Guard?
A. Right now I am at Range Operations, doing the many tasks it takes to keep the ranges running safely, smoothly, and efficiently. I am also a medic.
Q. What do you do for civilian work?
A. I am a medical assistant for the specialty practices at Concord Hospital.
Q. What do you think is the greatest benefit of being in the National Guard?
A. It is my second family and a job I love, all while serving my community and this great national.
Q. How has being a National Guard member benefited you in your local community and job?
A. Being a medic in the National Guard has given me many great learning experiences I take with me into my civilian job.
Q. What is your most memorable military moment?
A. Being promoted while I was in Germany that was an awesome experience.
Q. How long have you lived in Vermont?
A. I live in New Hampshire travel to Vermont for drill.
Q. What is your favorite aspect of living or working where you do?
A. Where I work, my supervisor is amazing. Very supportive of all my military duties and accomplishments, and tells me all the time how proud she is of me. The people I work with are great and the patients I care for make me realize what my purpose in life is.
Q. What has surprised you about the Vermont National Guard?
A. Coming from the Reserves, the camaraderie is so much different – Everyone lives here, works here, grew up together—tighter family I feel.
Q. What is your favorite part about serving in the VT National Guard?
A. The family I serve with.
Q. What made you volunteer for this Senegal Mission?
A. Another new experience, a chance to see a different culture, and learn first hand.
Q. Is this your first time here going to Senegal?
A. First time – looking forward to seeing different cultures, trying new foods, helping outside our borders.
Q. What is your mission in Senegal?
A. Range development – pushing dirt
Q. Why do you think your mission in Senegal is important?
A. Working with other forces, building relationships.
Q. What do you want to take away from this trip?
A. Satisfaction of a job well done and the knowledge gained from the experience and culture.
Q. How do you feel about being able to train with the Senegal Army?
A. Very excited for this opportunity.
Q. What are some differences between Senegal and Vermont?
A. Weather, terrain, culture.