An Army of two

They had aspirations of being professional wrestlers, Sea Gals and ballerinas, but on Wednesday sisters Sarah and Angela Andrews, 22, will become soldiers.

The identical twins have spent the past three years volunteering, then working at West Hills Elementary, their alma mater. As they recently walked through the school where they are paraeducators, they laughed with each other how nothing has changed since they were students there.

On Wednesday co-workers and friends gathered to say goodbye to the women before they head to South Carolina for basic training.

“This is one of those stories where you watch kids grow up and watch them go on to the next phase in their life,” said Flint Walpole, West Hills principal.

“They are very much a part of the community and this school,” he said.

Sarah and Angela grew up in Bremerton and have spent hardly a day apart. They sometimes finish each others’ sentences and oftentimes make lighthearted jokes at the others’ expense.

Born five minutes apart, the sibling rivalry began in the womb they said.

“Her umbilical cord was wrapped around my neck,” Sarah said.

“Yeah, but she was getting all the blood,” Angela said.

Although they will be stationed together for their first assignment, after that they could be separated during their four-year stint as automated logistical specialists (suppliers).

They say if that happens their phone bills will go through the roof, but remain optimistic.

“Anything we can do to serve our country, it’s worth it,” Angela said.

Army recruiter Quinn Moeller said he’s seen brothers enlist together, but not twins.

They joined the Army because they had been desperately searching for work and have several family members who have served in the military.

Friends had mixed emotions about saying goodbye to the sisters.

“I’m really glad with the choice they made, but also saddened. I’ve been dreading this day,” said Dee Queen, whose stepson is a West Hills student.

“The Army is getting two wonderful girls,” she said.

Walpole wished the sisters well and for a safe return.

“They are going to come back very different people,” he said.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.