DOWNEY –  Security is second nature to Clarence Roshell, currently employed as the Assistant Vice President of Operations at RMI International. Roshell’s career of serving to protect began at the age of 18 when he enlisted in the United States Army. Upon graduation from Zephyrhills High School in Florida in 1997, Clarence was looking for a way to pay for college to decrease “the burden on my parents.” After extensive research, Clarence decided that the Army would be his opportunity to do just that.

Roshell attended and graduated from the United States Army Military Police School in Fort McClellan, Alabama. There, Clarence continued his career of 8 years; from 1997 to 2005 as a part of the Military Police 95 Bravo. His service took him to four tours of duty overseas that included countries such as Panama and Egypt. Clarence was also a member of retired General Tommy Franks’ protection team. His final mission brought him to Operation Iraqi Freedom serving as a team leader in 2005.

Roshell states that the lack of “interaction with his family” is what he struggled with the most when he was deployed. He also mentions that it was increasingly difficult to establish “connections with people because everyone would be moving around a lot to various locations at any given time.”

When asked if he would relive his career in the Army if given the opportunity, Clarence’s reply was “Yes. I feel like I could’ve done more...I wanted to experience more regions.” The transition to civilian life was proven to be difficult for the first six months” according to Roshell. Once that time passed and he was settled into his job his “confidence was up” and realized that he didn’t “miss it as much.”

Clarence suggests that anyone who is considering joining the military to sincerely explore the branch that you are considering; do your research In addition to research; Roshell also mentions the great benefits and opportunities that are available. “Take advantage of all offers that are available in your branch.”

Clarence is currently in enrolled in school at Harbor Community College where he hopes to transfer to Cal State Dominguez Hills to finish off his Bachelor’s in Business Management. Clarence’s chief priority is to be fully and completely dedicated his time to his son Desmond who is currently in high school.

“Coming Home: A Veteran’s Story” is a project between the Living Tree Foundation and the Downey Patriot, with the goal of telling the stories of local veterans. If you are interested in telling your story, contact  Julie Garcia at (562) 884-8683 or julieg@yourlivingtree.org.

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Published: Aug. 28, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 20