15. Post-September 11th
On the fateful day of September 11th, 2001, Jessica was still training. Less than two weeks after, she was on her way to Fort Jackson, South Carolina to start Basic Training in the Army. Here too, she never imagined herself in a combat situation. She soon completed Advanced Individual Training in preparation for her Military Occupational Specialty, also known as AIT.
The time and length of the program depend on what the soldier specializes in and can range from four weeks to a year. Jessica became a Unit Supply Specialist and would complete her advanced training in the Quartermaster Corps in Fort Lee, Virginia. However, when the time came, she wasn’t ready for what they were asking.