Limited showers, hot conditions and food with a 10-year shelf life sometimes can have Capt. Olivia Benzing, R.N., wondering about her decision to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve. Then she remembers.

Published: February 17, 2020

Limited showers, hot conditions and food with a 10-year shelf life sometimes can have Capt. Olivia Benzing, R.N., wondering about her decision to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Then she remembers.

“It’s something I feel good about,” Olivia said. “I want to look back on my life 50 years from now and be proud of who I was and who I became.”

As a nurse for Norton Clinical Agency, she fills staffing needs at Norton Healthcare hospitals. Olivia credits her military service with developing the person and nurse she is today.

“The military has taught me discipline, responsibility and camaraderie,” Olivia said. “I am a better person, soldier and nurse because of the individuals I have been fortunate to serve alongside.”

As a critical care nurse reservist, she trains in the summers and weekends throughout the year so she and her team are ready to set up a mobile hospital anytime, anywhere.

“It’s really cool to see what people who don’t usually work together can accomplish,” Olivia said.

Olivia recently earned promotion to the rank of captain, and she’s taking classes to get her master’s degree in nursing.

“I’ve learned I’m tougher than I think I am. Some days are easy; some days are difficult. But it’s good to see what you can emotionally and physically do,” Olivia said. “It makes me feel good, and you meet some really amazing people. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”