Ryan Ahl enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in 2002 and was eventually commissioned as a second lieutenant.
Ahl said his fondest memories from two deployments to Iraq were the days spent occupying observational posts and knowing he had the support of his fellow soldiers.
“You’re in a war zone and you’re with three of your closest buddies and anything could happen," he said. "And it normally did.”
Ahl said he feels part of something bigger than himself. He has gained a respect for freedom and understanding of other cultures through his service.
In addition to his duties with the National Guard, Ahl is also the director of the Office of Veterans Services at the University of Pittsburgh. He plans to continue his education and hopes to work with veteran reintegration in his future.
Ahl was interviewed by CLCV team member and former U.S. Army E-5 Sergeant James Yauger. Read more about Veterans' Stories: Project 412 and its participating team members.
