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Petty
Officer Second Class Kenneth Schilling, a 2004 graduate of
Versailles, demonstrates a
drill with a junior high football player on
his back. Schilling was happy to be home, giving back
to the kids of
his county. CNO Photo By George Starks
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Bradford Football
Versailles grad
comes home to help inspire kids
By George Starks
BRADFORD- A 2004 graduate of Versailles, Petty Officer Second Class
Kenneth Schilling (USN), is currently stationed at the recruiting
station in Piqua, Ohio.
When in uniform, Schilling holds the rank of E-5 and is an
Aviation Ordnance Specialist.
Thursday, Schilling and two of his buddies, came to Bradford to help
explain to the Railroader football team what leadership, teamwork and
being a winner in life is all about.
In high school, Schilling started out on the football team at
Versailles and eventually quit the team.
He came back to his home area for a reason.
“I asked to come back here,” said Schilling. “When I was in high
school, I quit the team and eventually went down the wrong path, doing
the wrong stuff. Later, I joined the Navy and I wanted to show people
what it’s done for me. I can say it’s a blessing to be back here now.”
For Schilling, it’s all about giving back to his community.
“I have the unique opportunity to let these kids know that quitting is
never the answer,” Schilling admitted. “For me, there’s a sense of
accomplishment just to be able to give back. These kids will do
something after high school. It doesn’t matter if they join the
military, they’re all going to go out with a plan. A lot of kids didn’t
start out with a plan but maybe now, I helped them think about it. I
feel like I’ve done my job.”
By quitting the football team, Schilling admitted there was one thing
he knows full well.
“I know I’m never going to quit again,” Schilling stated. It’s the
worst mistake you can ever make. If I had stayed with it, I probably
would have went to college and not the Navy. If I get out now or quit
now, what’s life going to bring me then. I’ve been in for nine years.
I’m not about to give that up. Winners never quit and I’ll never quit
my team or my country.”
It’s all about the uniform and the pride he gets from wearing that
uniform.
“Wearing that uniform brings on a sense of pride because I’m doing what
is needed,” Schilling pointed out. “I know that on a moment’s notice,
my situation can change. When this country call me, I’m there and I
know there are very few people that want to do it. I work my tail off
every day but for me, it a Call to Duty.”
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