Northwest Farm Credit: Rural, Real Estate, Operating Loans; Farm Loans; Country Home Loans; Lot Loans; Equipment Financing; Young and Beginning Producers; Crop Insurance; Business Management Education; Property Appraisals
Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1052966
feature story 5 Northwest Farm Credit Services Military veterans, many from rural areas, possess unique skills and character traits that can strengthen rural communities. Reflecting on how the military hones these appreciated skills and traits, Greg Branson, a fourth-generation farmer in Nezperce, Idaho, says of his service, "It was probably the best thing I've ever done." After high school, Greg was eager to take over the family farm growing wheat, Kentucky bluegrass, canola and chickpeas. His dad, however, knew he wasn't ready. He feared if he gave Greg responsibility for the family farm too soon, he'd have to take it back shortly after. Now with the wisdom that comes with experience, Greg agrees with his dad: "I needed to grow up." A path to maturity Greg took all the money he saved working for his dad on the farm and enrolled at the University of Idaho to study agribusiness and economics. Unfortunately, the money was gone in a little over a year and his grades weren't the best. "Initially, college just wasn't for me," Greg says. "I'm a patriotic person so I decided to do something for my country and joined the Army." In the Army, he became a heavy-wheeled vehicle mechanic in a Patriot missile unit and was deployed for one tour in the Middle East. When he returned home and re-enrolled at school, Greg saw the impact the Army had on his education and character. "I had a new sense of urgency and discipline," says Greg. "I went from a 2.5 GPA before I left to a 4.0 GPA and I actually went to class." Born to a farm family, Greg already had farming in his blood, but credits his Army experience as a key component of what makes him so successful in the field today. Military and farm skills converge Greg and his wife, Jen, have run the farm together for 10 years. Every day, Greg's military experience contributes to the farm's operations. The mechanical skills he learned, especially the ability to fix heavy machinery, are a huge asset. Plus, before the Army, Greg worked only for his dad. In the service, he spent a lot of time working with and for a diverse group of people. He's a better boss because of it. An opportunity for all veterans Military veterans are ideal candidates for agricultural careers with their desire for meaningful work and the skills required for success. However, they also need financial and educational support. "Not many people come back and get the chance I've had," says Greg. "Today, pursuing a career in agriculture means you need to win the lottery, or have a dad, uncle or great friend, like Northwest Farm Credit Services, to help get you off the ground." With Northwest FCS, veterans establishing careers in agriculture can take advantage of beginning farmer programs, including AgVision and RateWise. They also qualify for continuing education opportunities offered through webinars, meetings and online resources. Greg and military veterans like him have served our country honorably. We are proud to serve as a helping hand up in return. Greg Branson, Idaho "Initially, college just wasn't for me," Greg says. "I'm a patriotic person so I decided to do something for my country and joined the Army."