The Cost of the Uniform: Good Times, and Facing the Enemy

Stepping out of high school, diploma in hand, the next decision is often more education or a fulfilling occupation.

Sometimes, in sifting through that stage, an unexpected opportunity occurs that sets the springboard for adult life.

When Monty Worster graduated high school in 1981, he looked toward the oil field. It was a time that when the industry was good, it was really good, but when it soured, things were dire. It wasn't long before the tight economy encouraged him to reconsider military enlistment, an option he wasn't interested in during high school.

He enlisted in the U.S. Navy, st...