There are many different reasons to join the Marine Corps, but Lance Cpl. Levi Armentrout had a very simple reason for enlisting: he desired to help people.
Armentrout is from the small town of Pleasantville, Ohio where he was attending Sinclair Community College for music production when he thought he could be doing more with his life.
“I really like helping people,” said Armentrout. “You can’t help everybody, but you can make a big difference if you are in the military.”
During his spare time, Armentrout enjoys volunteering at a local elementary school during family game nights, and at the high school assisting with the band, he said.
“The Marine Corps has been really life changing,” said Armentrout. “Once I joined I gained a sense of higher purpose.”
By belonging to a larger organization and by believing in something greater than oneself, you can see the difference you are making, Armentrout said. When it’s hard to see that difference, look at the little things happening around you.
Because of the variety of skillsets engineers learn, they are able to assist a variety of military occupational specialties to complete their missions.
“Without [combat engineers] you don’t have anybody to build buildings, fix runways, or sweep for mines to get a convoy through,” said Armentrout. “Without us, you’re not able to progress as far into a mission. You have mechanics, people who are providing food, and various other jobs, but we are here to make sure everything is built and maintained for those people.”
Just shy of two years, Armentrout already has his mind set on completing 20 years of service. This decision was influenced by the impact the Marine Corps has already had on Armentrout.
“I have a lot of goals I hope to accomplish during my time in the Corps,” said Armentrout. “I want to get promoted and be put in as many different leadership positions as possible. I want to prove to the other Marines that I am capable of doing my job and doing it well.”
Whether he is volunteering or simply doing his job and serving his country, Armentrout is taking advantage of the opportunities the Marine Corps has given him while seeking out opportunities to make a difference.
“It’s a good feeling when people recognize that you are trying to make a difference.”