Our Honor Defend Stories: Keith Jones II
1/26/2026 1:40:00 PM | General
What motivated you to join the military?
Entering college, my dad introduced the idea of joining the ROTC Program. I began to recognize how it could provide me with a strong sense of purpose and direction in life that will help prepare me for the real world. I would also be following in the footsteps of my dad, grandfather, uncles, and cousin by joining the Army and becoming the first Army officer in the family.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your time in the military, and how do you overcome it?
The most challenging aspect is balancing my Army training schedule with my full-time Ohio State responsibilities. As a video and photo producer for The Ohio State Athletics Department and a First Lieutenant in the National Guard, I rarely have a weekend off. However, the strong support from my supervisors and leadership at Ohio State makes a significant difference—they understand my commitments and consistently try to help in any way they can.
Can you share a memorable experience or moment during your service that has a lasting impact on you?
A memorable experience I had was this past summer when I led 30 soldiers through my first significant training mission. My platoon was tasked with training alongside the Florida National Guard at the National Training Center (NTC) in Fort Irwin, California. Over the course of 30 days, NTC simulated large-scale combat operations in the desert, featuring a highly skilled opposing force (OPFOR) and challenging terrain. Together with my exceptional leadership team, we successfully led our soldiers to accomplish the mission with no casualties or major injuries.
What skills or values have you developed in the military that have been most useful in your life or career?
Being in the Army, we uphold the seven Army Values, and one that I strive to live by every day is selfless service—putting the team’s goals and the mission above my own. I carry that mindset with me because it takes hard work and an unselfish attitude to continue striving for excellence here at Ohio State.
How does serving in the military shape your perspective on leadership, teamwork, or personal growth?
Serving in the Army has reaffirmed my understanding of what true leadership means. Leading from the front and setting the example are principles I strive to uphold every day. Mentoring and teaching the talented interns in the video and photo department brings me a great sense of fulfillment, and I hope to continue doing that.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the military based on your own experience?
My advice for someone considering joining the military is this: if you’re looking for a challenge, want to learn valuable life lessons, and are seeking a strong sense of purpose, then I say go for it.
