I was raised in Red Wing and from an early age, I was inspired by the public service of my parents and the election of the late Paul Wellstone, and I knew that I wanted to follow their example and serve my community. I was given that chance because of September 11, 2001. I entered college as a young man unsure of his place in the world but wanting, in some way to serve. As I watched the Pentagon burning, I had clarity that this was an opportunity where I could step-up to serve others. In the coming months after the terrorist attacks, I committed myself to military service, signing up for Army ROTC in college so I could do my part to protect the nation’s security.