Ohio Native Finds Purpose Through an Unexpected Army Calling

LANDSTUHL, Germany - Public Health Command Europe noncommissioned officer is reflecting on a career he never expected to pursue, one that now allows him to mentor soldiers, support military families and give back to the communities he calls home.

When Staff Sergeant Andrew Smith walked into a recruiter's office more than a decade ago, he imagined wearing a different uniform, repairing helicopters from the flight line as an Army Reserve aircraft mechanic. Instead, he walked out with an unexpected career and a trajectory that continues to shape him, his soldiers and the communities he serves today.

Smith, an Ohio native and former education major, is now a 68R Veterinary Food Inspection Specialist assigned to Public Health Command Europe. Thirteen years into his Army career, the once-undecided college graduate has transformed uncertainty into purpose, proving that the Army has endless opportunities for those willing to pursue them.

Smith's path was not straightforward. After graduating from Wright State University with a degree in teaching, the future NCO found himself at a crossroads.

"I enjoyed teaching, but I didn't quite know what came next," he says. A nudge from his then-girlfriend, now wife, Kayla, helped him decide. "We agreed that joining the Army was the best option for our family for a successful future."

Smith hoped to enlist as a helicopter repair technician, but an eyesight disqualification forced him to rethink his plans. Determined to serve and eager for the stability and student loan repayment opportunities the Army offered, he selected active duty and accepted a job he knew little about: veterinary food inspection.

"It wasn't what I expected to do," Smith said. "But it turned out to be what I didn't know I wanted."

Smith embraced the profession, beginning his career in South Korea and later deploying his skills across the globe. Today marks his second tour with Public Health Command Europe, where he used to serve in the Biological Analysis Division and now in the S3 Operations section. As the Schools and Operations NCO, he manages training, professional development and operational requirements for more than 150 soldiers.

"It's a big responsibility, but it's also rewarding," Smith said. "I get to help soldiers advance their careers, build their confidence and take advantage of the same opportunities I've been given."

The job, he says, has been professionally fulfilling and family friendly, something he values deeply.

"Being a veterinary food inspector is a great family job," he said. "Most days I'm home in the early evening and weekends are usually my family and mine. That time matters."

Smith speaks openly about the security and structure the Army provides. Insurance, pay stability and educational offerings have shaped his outlook, not only as a soldier, but as a husband and father.

"I consider myself lucky but we all bring sacrifices," Smith said. "I don't like that my children don't grow up close to their immediate family but we are fortunate to get to know different cultures and see the world."

Smith is committed to finishing his 20 years of service, a milestone that will allow him to retire while still young. Afterward, he plans to stay within the military community and give back.

That passion is already visible in his off-duty life. Smith volunteers wherever he is stationed, looking for ways to link his Army skills with community needs, whether this is in form of coaching his children's softball team, teaching proper handwashing or food safety.

Most recently, he spent time at a Child Development Center, volunteering in a group of toddlers. Smith introduced them to protective gear, masks, gloves and military equipment, blending safety education with hands-on curiosity, as part of a curriculum on clothing.

"Kids absorb everything," he said. "If I can spark interest or make them feel brave or excited, then I'm doing something worthwhile."

Whether in a classroom, an operations section or a laboratory, Smith brings the same steady focus: showing up, improving himself and helping others succeed.

Thirteen years ago, he was unsure what came next. Today, Smith shows that a single decision and an open mind can change the course of a life, a family and a community.