Military Salute Issue

April 2024

Welcome to Sol-Caritas' captivating exploration of the minds of extraordinary individuals. In this exclusive interview, we invite you to delve deep into the thoughts, experiences, and perspectives of Allyson Wallace, a person whose story is both captivating and inspirational. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the intricacies of her life, her passions, and her aspirations. Together, we'll shine a spotlight on her unique insights, accomplishments, and the wisdom she has gathered along her remarkable path. Prepare for an engaging conversation that is sure to leave you inspired, enlightened, and eager to draw from the well of her extraordinary journey.

MA2 Allyson N. Wallace

Good afternoon, Ms. Wallace. What prompted your decision to enlist in the Navy, and what has your journey been like thus far?

I always had an interest in joining the service. I lived in a very small town, and one day had a wakeup call that I had bigger dreams than my little town could give me. I knew I wanted to see the world, and what's better than getting paid to live in a foreign country and obtain life skills in the process.

Can you share a memorable experience or accomplishment from your time in the Navy?

My first “favorite day” was my one-year anniversary. I was selected to help with a Presidential detail for the USS Ford commissioning. I couldn’t help thinking how far I had come in just a year, and it was probably the funniest mission I’ve worked. 

How has serving in the Navy impacted your personal and professional growth?

When I joined, I was working three jobs, and was still broke. After joining I was put in a position to not have the financial burden of rent or utilities, allowing me to pay off my debt I came in with, establish a savings account and get ahead in life. Later I was able to start college. I finished my Associates degree and am currently finishing my Bachelors.

I have also learned a lot about different backgrounds of people from all corners of the world, allowing me to have an open mind and understand different perspectives of how the world works.

Can you describe a typical day in your life as a Navy sailor?

“If it's been a quiet and boring day, it just means you've done your job. You did it right, and you did it well”

How does your Navy training prepare you for various situations, both on and off duty?

The Navy helps prepare you to focus and work under stress. I do great in escape rooms and laser tag.

What values or lessons have you learned from your service in the Navy that you carry with you in your everyday life?

You learn how to love the little things. Not because I’ve been without, but because I’ve learned how convenient America really is. I can go to any grocery store and get non-food items that I might need, outside of America isn't like that. So going to a super convenient place, to somewhere that's not, you just appreciate it a little more. Knowing that I am getting paid the same amount, the same time each month, that I could take an ambulance to the ER for a bruised finger, and that i have countless of resources to help guide me through any hardships i can face - it has taught me to think twice before complaining how difficult my life is. I have friends from previous jobs, or high school that I see struggling - if they make it known or not. I was there at one point, and I was blessed to qualify to join. Most people don't get that opportunity and I make sure to remember that. 

How do you stay motivated and focused during long deployments or challenging missions?

Just by having fun with it. Nothing lasts forever, so just embrace the suck now and remember tomorrow is a new day.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the Navy or military service in general?

The military isn't for everyone, but if you honorably serve for at least one contract it will open doors for you. No matter what field of work you want to go into after your service. My best advice is to do your research, prepare your body and mind before bootcamp, have an open mind, and genuinely sit down and ask yourself if you are okay with missing family events that could occur.