My paternal grandfather Neil Berry served in the U.S. Navy. Unlike many of those who fought in the Vietnam War, he enlisted rather than being drafted. He began serving in 1966 and stayed for 4 years on the U.S.S Robisson destroyer. During this time he sank many ships and fought in the Gulf of Tonkin Skirmish. Upon his return to the States, he was spat on and attacked by people who disagreed with U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Unfortunately, I remained unaware of my Grandpa's achievements until his funeral where he was respected by uniformed soldiers and the presentation of the American flag. Though I do not plan to serve in the military myself, my grandfather's actions inspire my future plans. Despite his bravery, he did not seek recognition and reward for his service. To quote my father, "he saw a need and fulfilled it." Like my grandpa, I plan to fulfill a need in this country. The article "Physician workforce in the United States of America: Forecasting Nationwide Shortages" by Xiaoming Zhang, Daniel Lin, Hugh Pforsich, and Vernon W. Lin states that the number of doctors will decrease in the near future. After high school, I plan to endure the financial, physical, and mental hardships that are associated with becoming a doctor. I do not want to do this for the money or fame, but to help people in need and know that I made a difference by putting my abilities to the best use. While I strive to achieve my goals, I work weekends at a thrift store/food pantry. My job position requires me to fulfill a need wherever I see one. This includes assisting customers, cleaning, and dealing with store equipment and merchandise. Despite the lack of an actual manager title or pay, I have taken on many responsibilities necessary to run the store. Though it admittedly does not sound like much, I believe I am making a difference in my community. The Compassion 479 food pantry -which receives its funding from the storefront- has assisted in feeding, clothing, and caring for hundreds of families in Northwest Arkansas. My grandfather's example has encouraged me and will continue to encourage me in many ways. I hope to honor my grandfather's memory by doing whatever I can to fulfill a need wherever I am without searching for glory or money. I will stand strong in the face of people who look down on me and continue to endure any struggles that come my way. One day, I hope I can be an inspiration to my future family just as my grandfather was to me.