First of all, Thank You for your service . Second, I applied in high school and was denied (even though everyone told me I was slow, stupid and had mental retardation because of my stutter). I joined the military (USAF) and after my honorable discharge, I attended undergraduate and graduate school (Masters Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology) I am a National Trainer for hospitals because I found the joy of teaching. I still struggle but I'm surrounded by positive people, I practice mindful meditation daily, I read out loud every day and I practice self-care so that I don't fall into the darkness. This pandemic has pushed us completely out of our comfort zones and we now communicate via webcam and microphone. My 2 cents: Practice every single day. Practice in front of the mirror. Practice saying your name. Practice your greeting. Practice doesn't make perfect because I don't believe in perfection. Practice makes PERMANENT. Keep Moving Forward and DO NOT GIVE UP!! This is really hard work and at the end of the day I am physically, mentally and psychologically drained but I keep moving forward.