FROM DISASTER VICTIM TO HONOR GRADUATE OF THE MILITARY ACADEMY

The photo of Alix Idrache at his emotional graduation ceremony at West Point went around the world. Hard work got him his own “American Dream”.

Alix grew up in a slum in Haiti, where he first met US soldiers after a bad earthquake while they were running disaster relief. Their bearing and their modern equipment impressed him even then and gave him hope in the middle of that poverty. The situation in Haiti became untenable, and after years of trying, Alix’s father managed to emigrate to the United States. A few years later he was able to bring his family over, but Alix still had to earn his American citizenship first. That is why he joined the US armed forces. Despite his lack of formal education, he graduated in the top 5% of his class at the US Military Academy at West Point (one of the most prestigious colleges in the United States).
“In that moment I was overwhelmed by emotion. Three things came to mind and brought those tears. First, where I started. I am from Haiti and I could never have imagined that such an honor would one day be given to me. The second is where I am. Men and women who preserved the very essence of what it means to be human stood in this position and took the same oath. (…) The third is my future. Shortly after my leave I report to Fort Rucker to start flight school. Knowing that I will be a pilot one day keeps me humble.”

An army like the Bundeswehr gives you a roof over your head and secure pay, and it also gives you direction, a community and a purpose. This is where you pick up the basics if you have not already: punctuality, discipline, a proper turnout, everything it takes to become a valuable member of society (even if there is unfortunately less and less time in training for that).

We should never forget how important an institution like the Bundeswehr is for this country. Its values and standards should never be allowed to decay. They should be strengthened (conscription, equipment, training time).

Author’s note: if you like our articles, you can support us with a purchase in our shop (click here). We’re grateful for every bit of support!