POCATELLO — With only one year left to complete in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Lance Corporal Ken Clark decided to serve his country in a different way.

    Two months ago, the 23-year-old opened up a car detailing shop called American Detail at 528 E. Lewis St. 

    “I’ve been all over the world, and nothing compares to America,” Clark stated. “This is the best country to live in. Here, the opportunities are endless. That is not the case elsewhere.”

    Taking advantage of the “American Dream” is paying off for Clark who has already been able to hire three employees. He currently has plans to debut his second business venture in the near future.

    “As soon as I can, I want to start selling car care products,” Clark said. “I have a set of professional products that no other shops in this area carry, or use. These are high quality products that you cannot find anywhere else in this area.”

    Clark enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve soon after graduating from high school. He travels to Utah once a month for training.

    In all, he has served in the Utah-based reserve corps unit for five years now.

    “I don’t plan on re-enlisting,” Clark said. “I learned a lot, and I think the experience made me a better person. But, it’s time to close that chapter in my life and move forward.”

    The man, who is originally from the Seattle area, completed one tour in Afghanistan. He moved to the Gate City to be closer to family.

    “After completing training, I came back to Pocatello and attended school at Idaho State University while fulfilling my monthly duties as a Marine,” Clark said. “Continuing my business education at ISU, I became very interested in owning my own business. I threw around a few ideas and business models before making the final decision.”

    Clark believes in taking advantage of every second in life. Thus, he jump-started his business instead if finishing his degree.

    “Many people believe the road to success is paved with formal education. I, on the other hand, strongly believe in acquiring specific knowledge,” Clark said. “The clock of life is ticking.”

    The car detailer beautified automobiles’ interiors and exteriors throughout his high school career. He also gained experience working at several professional shops in the area.

    Clark says he regularly works on repossessed cars and vehicles brought in from car dealerships. He also has a set of customers who make regular appointments.

    “Some people do their job and go home. They don’t necessarily have anything tangible to grasp on to,” Clark said. “Here, I get to see the transformation of the car before and after. That is rewarding.”

    For more information visit www.facebook.com/mycleanauto.