For this week’s 11 Questions, we again keep it close to home with UWVC Board Member Nick Angione.
Nick was born and raised in New Jersey, and served in the Marine Corps during the 1980s & 1990s. After he left the Marines, Nick worked in finance for a number of years, before transitioning into construction and construction management. He’s now a home inspector in New Jersey.
See below for Nick’s 11 answers to our 11 questions (11/11) — we’re just glad he survived the Four Fingers of Death!
1. WHY DID YOU JOIN THE MILITARY?
I signed up for the Marine Corps delayed entry program my Junior year of High School. As a kid, I can’t remember thinking I ever had any other serious ambitions then to be a Reconnaissance Marine. It is something I always wanted to earn.
2. DID YOU HAVE VETERANS IN YOUR FAMILY?
Not in the traditional way. I am a first generation American. My grandfather served in the Italian army in World War I.
3. WHERE DID YOU ENLIST?
Hackensack, NJ
4. WHAT WAS YOUR PRIMARY MOS?
0321- Reconnaissance Man – Airborne and Scuba qualified.
5. DO YOU REMEMBER THE NAME OF YOUR FIRST DRILL INSTRUCTOR?
SIR, Senior Drill Instructor Staff Sergeant Taylor, SIR!!!!
6. WHAT WAS THE WORST THING YOU ATE IN THE MILITARY?
That would be a very long list….. but, the “four fingers of death” was the worst MRE I ever tried to eat. It was 4 hot dogs that were better left uneaten…
7. WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DAY IN THE MILITARY?
I will choose the positive side to this question. The day I was assigned to my first Reconnaissance team. I dreamt of being a Recon Marine for years, and once I earned my place on a team it was extraordinary to me. My jump wings and dive bubble were also memorable, but nothing was like being called a Recon Marine for the first time.
8. IF YOU COULD GO BACK TO THE DAY YOU GOT OUT OF THE MILITARY, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF?
Don’t get a speeding ticket on the way home!!
9. DID YOU HAVE ANY VETERAN MENTORS?
We all stand on the shoulders of the great men and women that came before us. My memory brings me to many great warriors that have proven themselves again and again over time. Their names are too many to count. Till Valhalla!
10. WHAT WAS YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT AS A VETERAN?
Every single day! Without question, I am honored to have served this country as a United States Marine. As a Veteran I am proud and humble when I am recognized by others, but I am reminded and humbled by my service everyday.
11. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE/LEAST FAVORITE MILITARY THEMED MOVIES?
Favorite: Heartbreak ridge, Full Metal Jacket, Platoon, Apocalypse Now, Bridge at the River Kwai. Least Favorite: Black Hawk down, Commando