Peter Giannoumis

Peter Giannoumis: A Journey of Service, Brotherhood, and Growth in the U.S. Army

Peter Giannoumis’s life story is one of resilience, camaraderie, and transformation, marked by his eight years of service in the U.S. Army. Born in Pennsylvania, Peter’s childhood was spent moving frequently, including time in New Jersey, Greece, and Maine. When high school ended, he chose the Army as a means to gain independence and new opportunities.

In 2006, Peter enlisted as a 92G food service specialist, embarking on a career that began at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, for basic training, and continued with advanced individual training (AIT) at Fort Lee, Virginia. Transitioning from civilian life to military structure was a significant shift, but Peter embraced the discipline and skills the Army instilled in him.

Peter’s first deployment was to Korea, where he spent a year building bonds with fellow soldiers while adjusting to life far from home. His duties as a cook were demanding, requiring long hours preparing meals for the unit, but the camaraderie among the soldiers made the experience memorable. “We were like family,” Peter recalls, emphasizing the sense of unity they shared as they navigated life in a foreign country. Despite the challenges, Korea became one of the highlights of his military career, filled with lasting friendships and fond memories.

Following his time in Korea, Peter was stationed at Fort Drum in upstate New York. Known for its harsh winters, Fort Drum tested Peter’s endurance in more ways than one. While the camaraderie he experienced in Korea was less prevalent, he remained committed to his role and responsibilities. His time at Fort Drum, though cold and challenging, added to his resilience and adaptability.

After completing four years of active duty, Peter transitioned to the reserves, joining the 46th Transportation Company in Auburn, Maine. In this role, he continued to serve as a cook, providing meals for the unit during weekend drills. The shared experience of reservist life fostered another layer of community and connection, which Peter valued deeply. His total military service spanned eight years, with four years in active duty and another four in the reserves.

When Peter completed his service, he initially returned to his roots, working at his parents’ Greek restaurant in Maine. However, he soon realized that cooking, while a valuable skill, was not his lifelong passion. Using the GI Bill, one of the most impactful benefits of his military service, Peter pursued higher education, earning an associate degree in business management. Later, he shifted his focus to athletic training, a field that aligned with his growing interest in fitness and well-being.

In 2019, Peter and his family relocated to Florida, where they opened a new Greek restaurant. Alongside this transition, Peter began working as a personal trainer at X-Force Body, finding fulfillment in helping others achieve their fitness goals. He also enrolled at Kaiser University to further his studies in athletic training, using the remainder of his GI Bill benefits to cover tuition. Reflecting on his journey, Peter credits the Army for providing him with invaluable skills, including discipline, integrity, and a strong work ethic, which continue to influence his personal and professional endeavors.

Throughout his military career, the sense of brotherhood he experienced stood out as the most profound aspect. Whether stationed in Korea, Fort Drum, or the reserves, Peter built bonds that transcended time and geography. He often reflects on the camaraderie he shared with fellow soldiers, a connection that felt like family. These experiences shaped his understanding of teamwork, leadership, and resilience, leaving a lasting imprint on his life.

When advising young people considering military service, Peter emphasizes the importance of defining one’s goals. Whether seeking education, travel, or skills, he believes the Army offers unparalleled opportunities for those willing to commit. He encourages potential recruits to align their goals with their choice of branch and job specialty to maximize the benefits of their service.

Looking back, Peter expresses gratitude for the opportunities the Army provided, including the chance to explore different parts of the world, develop lifelong friendships, and gain access to education. While he might have chosen different duty stations if given the chance, such as extending his time in Korea, he values every chapter of his military journey for the lessons it taught him.

Today, Peter continues to live by the values he learned in the Army. His work as a personal trainer and his academic pursuits are rooted in the discipline and integrity instilled during his years of service. Peter’s story is a testament to the transformative power of the military, offering individuals the tools to grow, connect, and build a fulfilling life beyond the uniform.