Service member spotlight: Aspirations Published April 11, 2013 By Joint Base Public Affairs JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Petty Officer 1st Class James Ampley, Fleet Readiness Center East and Aviation Support Detachment command career counselor, is the joint base's featured service member of the week. Ampley hails from Stamford, Conn. Q: Why did you join the military? A: I joined the military because I wanted to do something better with my life. I worked several jobs after graduating high school, but I didn't find anything that I wanted to make a career out of. I had a newborn baby and my plans were to get married, so I wanted to be in a better position to take care of my family. Q: What is your job and what is its impact on the mission? A: My job in the Navy is to perform office personnel administration, maintain records and official publications, perform administrative functions for legal proceedings, serve as an office manager, offer career guidance, counsel individuals on career opportunities and implement and manage a career information program. My impact on the mission is vital because I am normally the first point of contact when a Sailor has to make a decision on their career. The information and guidance I provide may determine whether the Sailor is retained or separated. Q: Do you have any past or current family members in military? A: My brother served in the Army for four years. Q: Who most inspires you? A: I am a man of faith, so I am inspired by God and the work I see him do on a day-to-day basis, especially through my encounters with service members. I am privileged to be able to talk to Sailors of all ranks and it is inspiring to hear the stories of how things have turned around for them personally and professionally. Q: What is one thing you'd like your fellow service members to take away or understand about the military? A: I would want all service members, especially the junior troops, to know that a life in the military is a wonderful thing to be a part of if you take advantage of it. The opportunities and experiences are countless. Each duty station may offer something different, and if you allow it, it can definitely mold you into a better person. No matter what career path you choose, you are going to have your ups and downs.