Ben Curry
Military Service: Marines (1996-2000) Inactive Reserve (2001-2004)
Highest Rank: Corporal (E-4)
Age: 35
MOS: Infantry (0311)
Civilian Job: Buyer,
84 Lumber Company
The Job
Curry is a buyer at 84 Lumber Company. He finds the best price and quality for all interior and exterior doors the company sells.
The College Route
An injury during a fast-roping exercise in Romania ended Curry’s dream of being a Marine. However, he took full advantage of the GI Bill and got a degree in business management.
Civilian Perks
Curry says his current job is similar to his life as a Marine. “It’s controlled chaos, it’s leadership and it’s doing your best. However, in this job, I’m just not being shot at.”
Best Advice
Curry recommends the education path to anyone who is getting out. “Take full advantage of the GI Bill and grants offered to veterans.”
Civilian Dress
“I still check my gigline and look for Irish pendants, even though I’ve been out a few years.” Curry jokingly wishes everyone in civilian life would do the same.
Motivated Marine
“I always wanted to be a Marine. It’s the best of the best and I wanted to be a part of it. It fit with my competitive nature,” Curry recalls. “The coolest memory of being a Marine was the adventure. You enter as a kid, but you end up doing things you’ve only seen on TV. I loved it.”
For Fun
Hobbies? I’m a CrossFitter
Favorite sports team? Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite movie? “Saving Private Ryan” or “Top Gun”
Can’t live without? iPhone
How do you relax? Ride my motorcycle
