Pharmacy Student Daniel Leetran to Serve in Navy, Contribute to Family Legacy of Honor

Q: Hometown and year in school

A: I’m a P4 student from Monticello.

Q: Which branch of the military have you committed to and why?

A: I am currently committed to the Navy through the Health Services Collegiate Program. I chose the Navy because of the quality of life the branch offers and my love for the ocean.

Q: Why did you choose to join the military?

A: In 1984, my father escaped Vietnam as a 14-year-old refugee with nothing more than the will to survive. My grandfather urged him to seek freedom from the chains of a prisoner of war cell after being captured for providing medical care to American troops during the Vietnam War. My grandfather believed that helping others in need was the right thing to do, even at the cost of his pending execution. I choose to serve my country because I believe in the same values, and I want the same opportunity my father had to seek freedom available to others as well. That is the American dream. 

Q: What does this commitment entail while you’re in school?

A: While in school, I have to maintain grades, physical readiness and monthly check-in meetings.

Q: What specific role or job are you interested in within the Navy?

A: My specific role within the Navy will be a pharmacist, but my duties as an officer will always come first.

Q: Any specific veterans you look up to?

A: The veterans I look up to served in Vietnam and, even after the war, helped Vietnamese refugees trying to seek a better life for themselves in America.