Video by USO Staff
CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea – Army Spc. Jonathan J. Cervantes doesn’t describe himself as a writer.
But when he heard that the USO was collecting submissions from volunteers, service members and their families for the book, “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Military Families,” he knew he had a story to share.
“I just decided to base it off of my experience in the military,” Cervantes said. “It talks about my experience in Afghanistan inside the USO and how they helped me out.”
After a little encouragement from his fellow volunteers and the staff at USO Camp Humphreys in South Korea, where Cervantes is stationed, he submitted his story for consideration.
A few weeks later, Cervantes heard the happy news that his story was selected for publication.
“It’ll be pretty interesting to see my own name in a famous book,” Cervantes said. “I guess it still hasn’t hit yet that I’m just going to be in a nationally sold book.”
Cervantes’ submission, titled “The Things You Learn,” is one of 101 incredible stories about military life from the many faces behind the forces. To read his story, along 100 others, pick up a copy of “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Military Families,” available May 9.
You can send a message of support and thanks directly to service members via the USO’s Campaign to Connect. Your messages will appear on screens at USO locations around the world.
Every day, America’s service members selflessly put their lives on the line to keep us safe and free. Please take a moment to let our troops know how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice.
