One of just 120 individuals chosen nationwide to join the United States Space Force, the newest branch of the military, is an upcoming graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, But according to Walter Kirkland Jr., who spoke with Channel 9, this achievement is about everyone else, not about him, at this point, it’s about honoring my parents, serving my country, and leaving a legacy for the next generation of African Americans and minorities, among other things,” Kirkland said.
Kirkland has already experienced a highly unique existence, so this uncommon interplanetary air is nothing new to him, He trained in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, both of his parents served in the armed forces, and in a few weeks, he will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from UNC Charlotte.