‘Worth the Challenge’: Cpl. Richard Contreras Behrens Writes Home

“I’m here — I’m actually here,” I said to myself on Day Zero.

I didn’t come to Texas Challenge Academy because I’m a “bad kid.” I believe that anyone, regardless of their past, has the power to make good choices and do what’s right.

For the past four years, I’ve enjoyed living in my small Texas town of Olney — population 3,200. I loved being part of the community, getting involved wherever I could, and knowing almost everyone.

Recently, I decided that I wanted to join the military and get a head start on my future. When I came across the TCA website and learned about the academy, it seemed like the perfect fit, and I wanted to be a part of it.

When I told my parents, they were very supportive. My mom had actually attended a military school called South- east Academy in Cerritos, California, and she did very well there.

I believe TCA is an incredible opportunity for young adults to challenge themselves in every possible way. Our cadre supervisors, team leads, and teachers genuinely care for us. For example, C.S. Vela is an amazing, godly woman who constantly encourages us and stands behind us.

From the outside looking in, people might never realize the impact TCA has on its students—but I promise that on graduation day, we students will be the first to testify to the greatness of this program.

So I end with this reminder to myself and to others: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” — Colossians 3:17