x
Breaking News
More () »

Former Bonny Eagle HS student overcomes obstacles to join the Army

After failing his first physical, Bailey Sawyer worked with recruiters to bring his weight down until he met Army standards

SCARBOROUGH (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- When Bailey Sawyer graduated from Bonny Eagle, he enrolled in the pre-med program at USM and spent a semester there before realizing his heart was somewhere else. That place was the United States Army.

Bailey, who at his highest weight was at 301 pounds, had gotten down to 234 when he walked into the recruiters office for the first time.

"I can't let the number on the scale really determine my future. The Army has so many opportunities. I could not let that number deter me from what I wanted to accomplish," said Sawyer.

Bailey failed his first physical but instead of giving up, he became more determined. His recruiters sent him to workout with a trainer from a local gym. That trainer turned out to be a fellow classmate, C.J. Stamps. Two weeks ago, at 213 pounds, Bailey took his physical again and passed.

VIDEO: Bailey Sawyer sworn in

"I remember going, and them taping me, and being so nervous. And then they said I made it, and I said 'Oh, my gosh!' I was so excited. In front of the doctor, I was so excited, because for me it's been such a long journey," Sawyer said.

Bailey, who leaves for boot camp in a couple of weeks, is planning to be a Blackhawk helicopter mechanic to start his Army career. As for C.J., who lost 80 pounds of his own, he was inspired by Bailey and has also enlisted in the Army. He will head to basic training in July.

Before You Leave, Check This Out