Meghan Brogan, Class of 2024, served nearly three years in the PA Air National Guard at Biddle Air Guard Base in Horsham, Pa. She’s currently a Cadet Candidate at the Air Force Academy Preparatory School, preparing to commission through the Air Force Academy.
“I tell everyone I meet that committing to serve was the best decision I have ever made, and I stand firmly by that,” said Brogan.
She enlisted at 17, before she even started her senior year at Truman. She was initially drawn by the benefits and opportunities that the military offered but came to understand the deeper reason behind her decision: service.
“Service has always been one of my core values, whether it’s serving my family, my community, or now, my country,” said Brogan. “As I’ve grown in the Air Force, that value has only become more important to me. What started as a decision at 17 has grown into a genuine commitment to something bigger than myself, and it’s a commitment I hope to carry with me throughout my life.”
Brogan began as a Water and Fuels Systems Apprentice in the 201st RED HORSE Squadron, Detachment 1, where she learned a variety of trades.
“I absolutely loved getting my hands dirty, working with my fellow Airmen, and seeing the impact of our work firsthand,” said Brogan. “RED HORSE truly became a second home to me. The men and women I worked alongside were more than just coworkers; they became family, and those relationships are something I’ll always cherish.”
As Brogan prepares for the next chapter of her Air Force career, she plans to become the best officer that she can be.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the hands-on experience, the places I traveled, and, most importantly, the people I served with. I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world,” she says.
Truman’s Influence on Her Service
Brogan has many teachers and mentors who supported her at Truman and continue to support her after graduation. She thanks her former engineering teacher, Mr. Diliegro, and guidance counselor, Mrs. Miller, for their encouragement.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the people at Truman who cared about my future and continued to root for me beyond my time in the district,” she said.
Brogan's extracurricular activities also helped her develop leadership skills, including serving on the Student Advisory Board and the Comprehensive Planning Committee. Brogan was in the Marching Band since eighth grade and dedicated many hours to rehearsals, performances, and competitions.
“It taught me discipline, commitment, and the importance of being part of a team,” said Brogan. “It also showed me how much you can accomplish when everyone works toward a common goal, something that has continued to resonate with me.”
DECA, which she recalls joining on a whim, taught her a great deal, including making decisions on her feet and becoming a more confident communicator. Ultimately, Brogan is grateful for all these experiences and the people she met along the way.
“They helped shape the person I am today and gave me a foundation that I’ve continued to build throughout my Air Force career,” she says.
Advice to Current Students
Brogan encourages Truman students to consider the military if they want to serve their country, develop as a person, learn to lead, and build relationships that last a lifetime.
“My advice is to find your why and remember that service is about more than just yourself—it’s about the people beside you and the people you serve,” said Brogan.
“What is so interesting about the United States military is that it is an all-volunteer force,” she adds. “Everyone currently serving made a conscious decision to serve, and I think there is something really special about choosing to dedicate a part of your life to something bigger than yourself. That shared commitment creates a unique culture and sense of camaraderie.”
She didn’t always think the military was the right path for her, but with encouragement from her mentors, friends, and family, she decided to take the leap.
“I knew that if I didn’t try, I would regret not stepping up to serve,” she says. This is why Brogan encourages anyone with a small desire to serve to explore it.
“You don’t need to have everything figured out to take that first step. The time will pass anyway, so why not take the chance? I’m incredibly grateful I did, and I hope others give themselves the opportunity to discover what service might mean to them,” said Brogan.