AS AIDAN Ralston looked at the inscription on his treasured copy of “The Gallant Man,” he couldn’t help but feel inspired by the words of Desmond Doss. Doss was a World War II (WWII) hero who saved lives without firing a shot, and his story spoke to Aidan in ways words couldn’t express. For months, Aidan read military history books and manuals, and his fascination with the U.S. armed forces grew stronger with each page. It became bigger than mere admiration, eventually becoming a yearning to be part of something bigger than himself.
“I wanted to be a medic because I wanted to help people. Doss inspired me to serve my country and help people in times of war and crisis,” he expressed.
Aidan’s mother, Shelly Ralston, was one of his biggest supporters throughout the process. She witnessed Aidan’s interest in serving his country years prior to him officially signing the forms.
“Aidan has always been interested in history — in particular, WWII. He was about 8 or 9 when his interest went even deeper, and he started being curious about how it shaped the world as we know it today,” Shelly said. “The medical interest came later when he realized how much of an impact the war had on people who returned home, as well as their families.”
As college approached, the weight of financial responsibility felt daunting, but Aidan remained determined. Thankfully, the National Guard presented an opportunity to not only find purpose but financial stability as well. The decision wasn’t easy, but Aidan’s strong moral compass and Christian background guided him. He confidently embraced this new path. It’s a decision he’s proud of and one that’s brought him countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
When asked about her initial feelings regarding his enlistment, Shelly admits to feeling nervous at first. But she can’t help but feel overwhelming pride for her son, who is well on his way to becoming a true hero.
“For me, having a child who chooses to serve is an incredible feeling. I have faith that if he’s called up, then he’s going to be exactly where he’s supposed to be,” Shelly said.
Aidan eagerly and bravely enlisted in the Tennessee National Guard. His family, ever supportive, understood his desire to chart his own course. He fully engulfed himself in boot camp at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. The relentless training — physical and mental — pushed him to his limits. But through the exhaustion and drill sergeant’s orders, he formed an unexpected bond with his fellow recruits.
“I made friends that I will never forget, and I am still in contact with some of them. Military life is a hard but rewarding lifestyle,” he explained.
Mutual challenges between him and his team brought forth a closeness that surprised him. Encouraging pats on the back during long runs and sharing inside jokes were just some of the moments Aidan will never forget.
At boot camp, weeks turned into months. Aidan’s initial angst melted away, replaced by a sense of confidence and pride. He tackled obstacle courses with newfound agility, and his shooting accuracy steadily improved. Boot camp transformed him physically but also instilled in him an ironclad discipline and resolve to defend the ideals he held dear.
Along his journey, Aidan grappled with the ethical complexities of his chosen path. The steadfast faith that guided his life — the principles enshrined in the Ten Commandments — sometimes clashed with the realities of war. Would he be forced to compromise his beliefs?
Despite these uncertainties, Aidan rests in his faith. His Bible serves as a source of strength. He also draws inspiration from his number one support system: his family.
“My family supporting me is my motivation to keep going during hard times,” Aidan declared.
He was the only one from his close circle who had taken this path, which is a responsibility he carries with honor. Choosing to serve is also a way to honor his late grandfather, David Maynard, who was a Vietnam War veteran, and his father, Patrick Maynard, who served 11 years in the Navy.
“He was always riveted to them when they’d share tales of their time during service and constantly asking questions,” Shelly said. “Seeing the positive impact that the military had on their lives, Aidan seeks the same aspects, such as the stability, routine, values, and principles that the military instills in soldiers.”
Shelly believes that his decision to become a medic in the National Guard was challenging but fit his humble yet determined personality.
“He’s often the kind of person who gives without the expectation of notoriety,” she explained.
Aidan steps forward with purpose, inspired by a desire to serve and a commitment to his beliefs. He is a soldier but also a man of faith, and he carries both identities with dignity.
“I wanted to do something with my life that was bigger than myself. God bless America.” GN
