Soldiers such as 1st Sgt. Abby West ensure that troops on the front line get the supplies they need.

"I transport supplies, personnel, ammunition ... anything that needs to keep our soldiers in the fight," said West as she sipped a cup of water.  "We're not just dumb truck drivers; we're smart about the vehicle, and we have good infantry skills," added the veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom.

West's military occupational specialty is 88M, or wheeled vehicle operator.  She works full-time for the Washington Army National Guard as an Active Guard Reserve, or AGR, at Camp Murray.

And for the past 19 years, she has excelled in her MOS.

"This MOS is not the glamorous side of the house," continued the native of Tacoma.  "But we are one of the key components that keeps the Army running, and without supplies there is no combat capability," she added.

It's an MOS that soldiers learn by doing.

After basic training, truck drivers are assigned to a transportation unit where they receive on-the-job training, or OJT.

"Besides the OJT soldiers receive, they also participate in truck rodeos, where they perfect the finer points of parallel parking, running a serpentine course or alley docking," added West.

Serving as an 88M has an extra special meaning to the first sergeant.

"As a woman in what is perceived to be a man's MOS, I helped to break the mold," continued West.  "This is a cool MOS for any soldier to serve in; it's all about sustaining combat effort," she added.

There are some drawbacks, though.

Convoy duty in a combat zone is dangerous said West.  And being able to work through the monotony of driving hours on end is tough.

"If a vehicle breaks down, a driver not only has to be able to troubleshoot the vehicle (but) also work as an 11B, or infantryman," said West.  "And all five senses need to be up and operating, mile after mile," she added.

Soldiers thinking about reenlisting and who are interested in cross training to this MOS should first talk to their first sergeant.  Having an aptitude for engines is a big plus.

"Whether active duty or reserve, this is a great way to serve," said West.