Was John Cena in the Military?
John Cena is a household name in the world of professional wrestling, but before he became a WWE superstar, he served his country in the United States Army. In this article, we’ll delve into John Cena’s military background and explore the significance of his service.
Direct Answer: Yes, John Cena was in the Military
John Felix Anthony Cena, born on April 23, 1977, is an American professional wrestler, actor, and former collegiate football player. Before pursuing a career in professional wrestling, Cena enlisted in the United States Army in 2001.
Early Life and Motivations
Growing up in West Newbury, Massachusetts, Cena was raised by his parents, John and Carol Cena. His father was a bank manager, and his mother was a breeder of Persian cats. Cena’s childhood was marked by bullying, which he has spoken about publicly. He was determined to prove himself and gain respect, which would later motivate his decision to join the military.
Army Service
Cena enlisted in the United States Army Reserve on May 12, 2001, at the age of 23. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, 3rd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, at Fort Benning, Georgia. During his time in the Army, Cena was stationed in South Korea, where he served as a part of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Armored Division.
MOS and Specializations
Cena’s Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was 13B – Cannon Crewmember, responsible for operating and maintaining howitzers. He also held the Airborne certification, allowing him to jump out of airplanes.
Time in the Army
Cena spent four years in the Army, serving from 2001 to 2005. During his time in the military, he rose to the rank of Private First Class. He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserve on December 16, 2005.
After the Army
After leaving the Army, Cena returned to the United States and began pursuing a career in professional wrestling. He started training at the Ultimate Pro Wrestling (UPW) school in California and eventually signed with World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now known as WWE, in 2001.
Impact on his Wrestling Career
Cena’s military background has had a significant impact on his wrestling career. His physical training and discipline gained during his time in the Army have allowed him to excel in the ring. Additionally, his experiences in the military have influenced his in-ring persona, with his character often embodying themes of patriotism, loyalty, and honor.
Giving Back to the Military Community
Throughout his career, Cena has been involved in various charity initiatives, often supporting organizations that benefit the military community. He has participated in USO tours, visiting troops overseas and entertaining them with his wrestling performances.
Conclusion
John Cena’s military service has played a significant role in shaping his life and career. His experiences in the Army have instilled values such as discipline, hard work, and resilience, which have helped him become one of the most successful professional wrestlers of all time. As a result, Cena has become a beloved figure in the military community, and his service continues to inspire and motivate those who have served or are currently serving.
Key Statistics:
- Age at enlistment: 23
- Military branch: United States Army Reserve
- Rank: Private First Class
- MOS: 13B – Cannon Crewmember
- Time in service: 4 years
- Airborne certification: Yes
Comparison Table:
| Characteristic | John Cena’s Military Experience | Typical Army Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Age at enlistment | 23 | 18-20 |
| Rank | Private First Class | Private (E-1) to Sergeant (E-5) |
| MOS | 13B – Cannon Crewmember | Various specialties |
| Time in service | 4 years | 2-4 years |
| Airborne certification | Yes | Optional |
In the Words of John Cena:
"Being in the military has given me a sense of purpose. It’s given me a sense of pride. It’s given me a sense of accomplishment. And it’s given me a sense of respect from others. That’s what I’ve gotten from my time in the military." – John Cena
