Varsity basketball player Marianne Parks is a senior at Fort Gibson High School and a member of the Oklahoma National Guard. 

Parks made the decision to join the National Guard while she was a junior high school.

“I decided I wanted to join the military last year and I chose the National Guard because my family has been in the National Guard, and I’ve heard a lot of good things about it,” said Parks. “My uncle was in the military for 25 years and my cousin just joined last year as well.” 

As a member of the Oklahoma National Guard, Parks will serve as a 31 Bravo or Military Police. The National Guard has many different jobs to choose from, but for Parks, becoming a member and serving as an MP was exactly what she wanted. The recruiting process was an easy one for Parks and her family. 

“The recruiting process was smooth and easy for me,” said Parks. “My recruiter was very helpful and answered any questions I had.” 

Serving the state of Oklahoma and the United States is something Parks is proud of. She is looking forward to helping people and making Oklahoma a better place for all. 

“I love bringing our country together as a whole and serving and protecting the people in the United States because it creates a stronger bond and brings everyone together,” said Parks. 

Head coach Scott Lowe said of Parks, “Marianne’s character is a hallmark of our program.” 

When she’s not playing basketball or serving our country, Parks enjoys working out, spending time with family and friends and deer hunting.