Shelane Etchison, a veteran running for U.S. office, shares her transformative journey from a non-military background to military service, sparked by the events of 9/11. She discusses her determination to serve, the unique challenges she faced in ROTC, and the emotional toll of combat. Shelane advocates for independent leadership in a polarized political landscape and stresses the importance of military representation in government. She also highlights socio-economic struggles and the need for electoral reforms to enhance political accountability.