Where once the shot heard around the world was fired—on the quiet Concord River in Massachusetts—the hillsides rang again. This time, the musket fire was followed by the jubilation of the Army Reserve's 117th birthday. As Soldiers celebrated, a new bond was forged between brother and sister.

Farell Nganso, a Soldier with the Army Reserve’s 804th Medical Brigade, witnessed his sister’s enlistment ceremony during the celebration. Farell joined the Army Reserve a little over a year ago, but he has always sought a life of service.

“I decided to join the Army Reserve mainly because we have an Army story in our family,” he said, reflecting on his grandfather’s service in the Cameroonian Army. “So, the Army for me was not a question. It was evident.”

That family legacy extended as his sisters followed in his footsteps this year. Darell Nganso enlisted before the ceremony and could not attend. However, Karell Nganso had the honor of swearing in mid-ceremony among other recruits. Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of the Army Reserve, administered the oath of enlistment and spoke about the importance of the recruits' decisions, highlighting their bravery.

“You have seen America at war pretty much your entire lives, yet you stand here, and you're going to raise your right hand and join an Army that’s getting after it every day,” he said. “When I joined, I’d like to think I had a little patriotism, but these young men and women have courage. They’re seeing what’s out there. You are joining the greatest Army—the most lethal fighting force this world has ever known.”

Listening to the commander’s words, Farell reflected on what spurred him to join.

“I wanted to be able to serve the people of the United States of America,” he said. “Being profitable to my city, surpassing my limits. Most importantly, having an impact on the future generation as a good leader.”

After joining on such a momentous occasion, Karell walked with her brother along the trail to the Minute Man statue and across the North Bridge, where volunteer re-enactors fired musket volleys into the air.

“I feel excited,” she said. “I was nervous, but now I’m very proud of myself for taking this step, and I can’t wait to start. I was skeptical, I was scared—obviously—but his journey inspired me. I thought this was a good opportunity to surpass myself. And after hearing the general, I realized this is bigger than myself. This is for America.”

Karell went on to share her outlook on future service.

“I do want to inspire other Americans to join the Army, because again, this is a bigger purpose than just ourselves—and it’s a great experience,” she said. “Really, life is not that serious. Just face new challenges. Try new things. Don’t be scared because it’s the Army—just go for it.”