SFC Alexander J. Thurston
How long have you been in: 21 years.
Why did you enlist: To fund college.
Why did you become a recruiter: I started sharing my experience in the Guard after my first deployment and referred several people to recruiters and was asked to apply and board.
Description of yourself including: I’m an extremely experienced Recruiting and Retention NCO who is passionate about making sure everyone who serves gets the best experience and develops themselves to be the greatness they deserve.
Army awards and achievements
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Army Commendation Medal x 4
- Army Achievement Medal x 3
- Army Good Conduct Medal x 4
- Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal with 2 Stars
- NHNG State Active Duty Ribbon
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Armed Forced Reserve medal with M device and hourglass
- NCO Professional Development Ribbon – 3
- Army Res Components Overseas Training Ribbon x 2
- Army Service Ribbon
- Director’s 54 Master badge Recruiter
- Combat Action Badge
- Meritorious Unit Commendation
- Valorous Unit Award
SSG Ashley Maxner
How long have you been in: Enlisted July 13, 2007
Why did you enlist: It was a lifelong dream of mine to be in the Army and serve my country.
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter to offer opportunities to others that will set them up for success to achieve their life goals
Description of yourself including: Dedicated, honest, team player. I will work hard to help get you to where you want to be in life.
SSG Derek Reiss
How long have you been in: 13 years
Why did you enlist: I enlisted into the National Guard for multiple reasons. Among them are fulfilling the camaraderie and sense of being a part of something bigger than myself that I was raised on through sports and missing when I left the Marines, and also the National Guard’s unique status of being a state and local entity. The National Guard also fully covered my tuition to Granite State College. I have a bachelor’s degree and no student loan debt
SSG Devin Anderson
How long have you been in: 12 years
Why did you enlist: I enlisted during a recession in 2008 to help open up new career paths.
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter to help provide opportunities to those looking to give back to their community and country as well as train new Soldiers that enlist with us at the Recruit Training Company.
Description of yourself including: Recruiter for the Lakes Region and surrounding areas. I enjoy hiking, hunting and spending time with my wife and two boys.
Army awards and achievements
- 2020 New Hampshire Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year
- Warrior Leader Course Distinguished Honor Graduate
- Advanced Leader Course Honor Graduate
- Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon w/ Campaign Star
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Metal
- Army Commendation Metal x2
- Army Achievement Metal x2
- NATO Metal
- Master Resilience Trainer
- Anti-Terrorism Officer
SSG Adam T. Rich
How long have you been in: Joined the NH Army National Guard on April 6th 2006.
Why did you enlist: I enlisted because I knew the Military was a way to better myself for my family, my career and so that I could give back to the State of New Hampshire. Growing up in the North Country, I was raised with the ideals that you give back and always help your neighbors.
Why did you become a recruiter: I want to give back to the people of NH the opportunities that have been given to me. Effort is free, success is earned.
Description of yourself including: I am a motivated Career Counselor first and foremost. I currently reside in Central NH with my family. I seek people that are ready to make a change in their lives, and are ready to work in their communities.
Army awards and achievements
- Iraq Campaign medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Meritorious Unit Citation
- 3X Army Commendation Medal
- NATO service ribbon
- Overseas Training Medal-Senior Gunner
- Anti-Terrorism Officer
- Vehicle Convoy Operations Senior Instructor/Operator
- Cougar Senior Instructor/Operator
- CROWS Operator
- Tactical Certification Course
- Overseas Instructor to El Salvador Army 2X
SSG Jason M. Collins
How long have you been in: 16 Years
Why did you enlist: Honest answer…A lot of my friends dropped out of high school and started doing dumb stuff, so I wanted to get away before I fell down the same path, build a better life for myself. I stay in because of what the Army has allowed to do, the life it has helped me make.
Why did you become a recruiter: Became a Recruiter to share the knowledge and experiences with the younger generation that may be in a similar situation as I was my senior year in high school, to hopefully make them realize it doesn’t end there. A new life can be built, and not to be afraid to turn down the dirt road to see where it goes.
Description of yourself including: Hockey fan, still play a few times a week. I like to build various things. Don’t like dirty windows. I’ll never shave my head. Always wear my seatbelt. Love motorcycles. Love hiking. Love fishing. Hate running, but I do it. Want to learn to fly a helicopter. I don’t care about long walks on the beach. Can’t wait to grow a beard when I retire. I’m an Alicia Keys fan. Favorite color is red. Favorite animal is a mountain lion or tiger. Love my lawn. I think I could beat a chimp in a fight. Enjoy helping others achieve their goals. Active duty prior to enlisting in the NG. Multiple deployments to Iraq an AFG. Been a Recruiter for 2 ½ years. Seacoast Team Leader.
Army awards and achievements
- Seacoast Team Leader
- Recruiter of the quarter
- (RY20) AFG Campaign Medal w/ campaign star
- ARCOM (3)
- Army good conduct medal
- Army reserve component achievement medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global war on terrorism expeditionary
- Global war on terrorism service medal
- Army service ribbon
- Overseas training ribbon
- Armed forces reserve medal w/ M device
- Nato medal
- NCOPD (2)
- Overseas Service Ribbon (2)
SSG Cassandra Brown
How long have you been in: Since 2013 or 6.5 years
Why did you enlist: When I was in high school it was pushed upon me to go to college and I followed that plan. My senior year of college I still felt like I was missing something and serving in the military was a goal I had not achieved yet. I discovered that the National Guard was a part time organization, which allowed me continue accomplishing my goal to become a Police Officer, but also allowed me to serve in the military. Joining the Guard also provided me the experience needed to get hired as a Police Officer. I have loved all the doors it has opened for me and the financial stability it has given me.
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter in order to talk to students who were like myself – they wanted to serve, but did not want to go full time active duty. I love helping others achieve their life and career goals and showing them that the Guard can help you do that.
Description of yourself including: I am 28 years old and have grown up and went to school in the Seacoast Area. Before becoming a recruiter I worked as a Police Officer in Concord, NH and now work part time for Madbury Police Department. I love helping others and serving in my community. I am married with two shibainu dogs! If I am not recruiting, I love to play soccer, hike and go snowboarding. If you are looking to learn more about the opportunities the guard can provide for you feel free to text, call or send me a message on Facebook or Instagram.
Army awards and achievements
- Meritorious Service Medal
- NH Recruiter of the Year
- NH Rookie Recruiter of the Year
- Army Achievement Medal (2x)
- Distinguished Honor Graduate AIT and ALC
- National Defense Service Medal
- NCO Professional Developmental Ribbon (2x)
- Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon
- Army Service Ribbon
SGT Richard Carleton
How long have you been in: 7 years in February
Why did you enlist: I always wanted to serve but wanted to go to college at the same time and the guard provided the best benefits for that.
Why did you become a recruiter: The guard had such a positive impact on my life that I wanted to provide the same opportunity for everyone.
Description of yourself including: Hobbies: Gaming, Fishing, Playing sports
SSG Alyssa A. O’Donnell
How long have you been in: 8 years
Why did you enlist: College Money and Adventure
Why did you become a recruiter: To help young adults create a career path- whether or not it be college or working and use the Guard to help them become successful.
Description of yourself including: I am currently going to UNH, studying Health and Physical Education and have 2 courses left until I get my free degree. I am an avid CrossFitter and have a passion for races and competitions. My daughter is 3 years old and my dog is 7 months. I hope to do 20 or more years full time in the NH Army National Guard.
Army awards and achievements
- Air Assault
- Mountain Athlete Warrior
- Career Direction Course 2
- HEAR Trainer- Helping Everyone Achieve Respect
- Resilience Trainer Assistant
- Al-Minhad 500lb Club
SSG Zerk-Eli Manner
How long have you been in: 12 years
Why did you enlist: My dad was in the Army. I also had a brother in the Navy and another one in the army.
Why did you become a recruiter: I was Born to be a Recruiter. I am a natural salesperson and love the energy of this job. I love helping people find their own success.
Description of yourself including: I am a passionate person. I love my wife and my two little kiddos. The military was one of the best things that happen to me and I like to share that with the folks I work with. I have a lot of hobbies, I like video games, all things house and construction related, cooking, motorcycles, sports, games, challenges and building pretty much anything
SGT Shawn Bleau
How long have you been in: 6 years
Why did you enlist: I enlisted to carry on my family tradition of service in the New Hampshire army national guard, and to fulfill the need to serve my country with in myself
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter to help spread the word and give other people the opportunities that were given to me and my family.
Description of yourself including: I am a New Hampshire born and raised avid outdoorsmen and look for every opportunity to get in to the woods of New Hampshire. I am a father of four daughters and a third generation New Hampshire Army National Guardsmen.
Army awards and achievements
- Army acheivement medal
- Rams head device (Military mountaineer)
- Pistol EIC (bronze)
- Sqi4 non career military recruiter
- Military funeral honors course
- NCO professional development
- Overseas training ribbon
- Army service ribbon
- National defense service ribbon
- New Hampshire national guard service ribbon
SPC Edgar Saucier
How long have you been in: 6 Years
Why did you enlist: I enlisted into the National Guard because I wanted to serve my country and my community. To leave behind a legacy that others will follow.
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter because I truly enjoy what I signed up for. I want others to feel that same passion I do. I also want to help others obtain their goals, ambitions and passions! The most rewarding experience of a lifetime.
Description of yourself including: I am a highly motivated individual that loves to constantly train. Outside of work you can catch me on the mats training jujitsu, wrestling, boxing, or kickboxing. Also during winter I help assist coaching HS wrestling! GO SOUGHEGAN SABERS!
Army awards and achievements
- German Armed Forces Badge (GAFB)
- Massachusetts service medal
- Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Army Service Ribbon
- Unit Armor Cert.
- Army Combatives levels 1&2
SSG Dustin Glidden
How long have you been in: 13.5 years
Why did you enlist: I needed to get on a better path in life. I wanted to do my part after 9/11.
Why did you become a recruiter: To help people make a positive change in their lives, team player, loyal and honest.
Description of yourself including: I am a father, husband, Soldier and mountaineer.
Army awards and achievements
- CIB
- Rams Head
- 2 ARCOM
- 3 AAM
- AGCM 2
- NDSM
- NATOMDL
- VUA
- NOPDR 3
- ASR
- OSR 2
- CIB EICRB
- AFRMM
- GWTSM
- ACM-CS 2
SSG Eidon Cruznunez
How long have you been in: 11 years- all national guard
Why did you enlist: Wanted to go to college without having to accrued a huge debt
Why did you become a recruiter: I want to change people’s lives for the better, the same way my recruiter changed mine.
Description of yourself including: My name is Eidon Cruz, I’m originally from Lawrence Massachusetts, I`m a huge fan of video games and anime. I like to balance my off time with self-improving habits like going to the gym, hiking with my wife and kid, reading, or studying art.
Army awards and achievements
- 4 AAM
- 3 ARCOM
- Air Assault Badge
SSG Christopher Demain
How long have you been in: 10 Years
Why did you enlist: I joined to help protect my country and community. I knew that in order to be a part of the big picture of protecting and providing support to both country and community, the Army National Guard was the path for me.
Why did you become a recruiter: I became a recruiter because I wanted to help those looking for a path to success, not only see or hear that the ARNG could provide this, but give them my story and end up making their own success story while being a part of our organization.
Description of yourself including: I have always been the kind of person to put others before myself. I have a “go getter” mentality and will stop at nothing until all tasks are completed. One thing I always say is Get After it! That “it” is your goals, dreams and tasks at hand. Don’t stop until it’s completed and you are satisfied. That’s who I am and I will always Stay After It! I am here for you!
Army awards and achievements
- ARCOM-1
- AAM-1

benjamin.r.courchesne.mil@mail.mil
Contact Recruiter
SSG Benjamin Courchesne
How long have you been in: 12 ½ years of service, Joined through the NHARNG through the split option program in 2008 at age 17 Went to fort Leonardwood, MO for both basic and AIT
Why did you become a recruiter: Recruiter for 1 year
Description of yourself including: Graduated Newport,NH High School
– Keene State College, Physical Education
– Father of 2
– 29 years old
Army awards and achievements
- Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan 2013
- El Salvador training mission 2017
- State Active Duty Hurricane Irene
SSG Robin F. Rojek
How long have you been in: 12 years
Why did you enlist: College Money and Service to Country. Following father’s footsteps
Why did you become a recruiter: To help young adults create a career path/sense of direction- with or without college and for them to use the Guard to set them up with a path of success in order to become more successful with more opportunities.
Description of yourself including: I am currently the Team Leader for the NH Army National Guard Manchester Recruiting Office. I am also a Drill Sergeant at the Recruit Training Company. I attended Plymouth State University studying Criminal Justice. I have been recruiting for 7 years, which the last 4 have been in the Manchester-Derry area. My hobbies included playing sports (soccer, football, and softball), hiking, swimming, and home construction.
Army awards and achievements
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Army Commendation Medal
- Army Achievement Medal
- Army Good Conduct Medal
- Driver’s Badge
- Drill Sergeant Badge
- 2x Director’s 54 award (NH Top Recruiter)

derek.g.kirlis.mil@mail.mil
Concord, NH
Contact Recruiter
SSG Derek Kirlis
How long have you been in: Joined NHARNG 2011 as 13M Himars Field Artillery B Btry 3/197th FA Nashua
Why did you become a recruiter: 2017
Description of yourself including: Born in MA, Graduate of Pinkerton Academy, Bachelor’s Degree Criminal Justice, Corrections Officer since 2006 (still employed technically but can put 11 years of corrections instead since I’ve been on AGR)
Army awards and achievements
- Deployed United Arab Emirates 2015
- FY 18 Rookie of the year
- Team Leader 2019
- Master Recruiting Badge
- Master Fitness Instructor
- Level 3 certified ACFT
- Certified Army Instructor
- AAM x3
SFC Kevin Wheeler
How long have you been in: Enlisted 12th May 2005 as a Spit-Option, Jr in High School
Why did you enlist: I wanted to serve my country and set a good foundation for the rest of my life.
Why did you become a recruiter: To make known and offer opportunities to the young men and woman throughout my community.
US Army Drill Sergeant Academy, Non-Career Recruiter, Fair but firm, team player, loyal and honest.
Army awards and achievements
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star
- NATO Afghanistan Service Medal
- Army Commendation Medal (3rd Award)
- Army Good Conduct Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star
- Non Commissioned Officer
- Army Service Ribbon
- Overseas Service Ribbon(2nd award)
- Armed forces Reserve Medal w/ M device
- Combat Action Badge
- Army Achievement Medal.