Reference no: EM133195886
Essay for book Penny Velasquez
Complicated Beginning
My story is a complicated one, my name is Penny Velasquez (Martinez) and I am 33 yrs old. I am a MSgt in the United States Air Force. I am Supply but currently serving as an Assistant First Sergeant at Yokota AB Japan. My story begins in Washington D.C., my mother was an immigrant from the Dominican Republic and my father was from Nicaragua. My father left his country seeking political asylum and was 20yrs older than my mother. He saw my mother and set his eyes on her. Their relationship would be a very violent, and tumultuous one.
I was born in Washington D.C. but my mother could spend the rest of her life running from my father. I grew up in a very unstable childhood. We lived in rat infested basement in New Jersey. After being molested by a family member at the age of 6yrs old. My mother decided it was time to leave. Our neighbor who lived upstairs was the neighborhood drug dealer. He did something usual by helping us out. He drove us to New York in a van and we never looked back. By this time my mother was a single parent with 3 kids, no skill sets and no English. I knew that at a very early age I was going to be relied upon for many things as the oldest child.
Growing up in New York was very hard. My mother would move several times due to eviction and unable to keep a steady job. She eventually was able to hold two jobs but she would spend the majority of my childhood working. She worked in a hospital that that turned into many 12hr shifts and sometimes days that I did not see her. She instructed me at a early age to be the leader of our home. It was my responsibility to help get my younger brother and sister ready for school, cook and clean. Growing up in New York was the best of times and the worst of times. Living in a Dominican household involved a standard of cleaning, eating my favorite food which was platanos and hearing Spanish music such as Marc Anthony, Celia Cruz and Jose Feliciano. On the weekends, my friends would all hang out in the Dominican Hair Salons. I was not allowed to go because of all my responsibilities at home. My mother heavily relied on church. It became our safe haven but even that did not stop all the challenges the world had.
Getting Away
As I grew into my teenage years, I worked two jobs while barely maintaining school to support my family. I worked at Dunkin Donuts and Goodwill. I tried to fit in like most kids in my school, but I did not. The Goodwill clothes and lack of social awareness did not make it easy for me. I did not have much time to enjoy my childhood because I was always working or cleaning. I became angry and began looking for a way out. I was tired of living in poverty and being on food stamps. Mybrother who was already in the Marine Corps, advised me to join the Air Force. I started looking for any information I could find.
At this point I was a senior in high school desperately trying to figure my life out. I asked around my local high school and found a recruiter in my neighborhood. Once I found his location, I was so excited. I finally felt a way out! Little did I know that was just the beginning of my problems. Unfortunately I did not have the best experience with my recruiter. I had to chase him down and be persistent to get in. Finally after much pursuit, he contacted me and said he had an opening for me one week after I graduated high school. He said Supply was available and I took the opportunity and job without knowing anything about it. Although I was excited to leave, it was not exciting at home. My mother at the time was against me going due to the fact I was such a help home. I helped contribute money to pay the bills and ensured my siblings where secured. Against my mother's wishes I took a cab to the airport and took a flight to San Antonio. I had no idea that was just the beginning of more challenges.
Crossing Into The Blue
Basic training showed me how much of an independent person I was. The many years I spent providing for my family made it difficult for me to conformto my flight. I saw no on in my flight that looked like me. I was the only Afro Latina from New York in a group of white trainees. Not to mention, growing up in New York hardened my heart, I had seen too much and the MTI's did not intimidate me. In fact I challenged them. I caused a verbal altercation in my first flight which caused the MTI's to wash me back all the way to 4th week. My attitude and mindset made it hard to understand the value of teamwork. After arriving to my second flight, I wanted nothing more than to just graduate because I was sick of being there and ready to start my new life. Ibegan to humble myself.
A week before I graduated BMT I was able to call my mother and she said on the phone that she was not going to be able to make my graduation because she could not afford to fly down. As usual, I understood and knew that it was a not possible due to her having to take care of bills. As I prepared for graduation we did our graduation run. This is where all parents and family members line up to see the trainees run. I was in the front running and in the crowd I saw a women dressed in a bright shirt crying and yelling my name. I thought I was dreaming. After the run, the trainees were released to see their loved ones. I started to walk towards the trainees who had no family and a woman approached me crying. It was my mom! I was surprised! I screamed and hugged her and said "Mom how did you get here?" She told me our home church raised money to buy a plane ticket to send her down to see me. I was so happy! This was the first time my mother could attend any event I had done. She wasn't even able to attend my high school graduation due to always working. I felt proud and happy to see her. We spent the rest of the day talking in the food court and catching up on what has been going on back home. I treasured those few hours. I made up my mind I was going to make my family proud. My mother was only able to stay for that one day and flew back up to New York.
My tech school was in San Antonio so I stayed there while the rest of my friends in BMT traveled to other bases to learn their job. I had no idea what Supply was, I just knew it was a way out of poverty. I was now placed in an environment where I had to learn, read and study for tests. I was still struggling financially. The small amount of money I was making I used to send back home for my mother and sister. I was still supporting my family back home because it was just too difficult for them to do it on their own. I found the military way of life easy as it provided my uniform, food and mostly everything I needed. I struggled mainly to understand my identity because I was still very "New York" and challenged authority figures. Unfortunately I barely made it out of high school, my grades were low. I struggled in class due the distractions, fights, and teachers who could care less. I never knew how to actually "study". Until I met another student in my class named A1C CathlynNguynen. She would become a lifelong best friend. Her parents were from Vietnam and she was sharp. She had her head straight, focused and was our class leader. I was very outspoken and loud, she was more quiet but she took me in showed me how she studied. We also shared similar struggles with parents that were not from this country and her wanting to make a better life for herself. She never judged me and always looked out for me. On the outside a Dominican girl from New York befriended a Vietnamese girl from Washington State is very strange but she was a true friend. Our birthdays were even 2 days apart. That was one great thing about the military I learned, you start to become family with people who are not blood related. As we were going to graduate tech school, I became sad because I had grown very close to Nguyen. She was guard which meant she was going to go back home immediately. I was active duty and I had orders to Kadena AB Japan. One last act of kindness that she did for me, before she left she gave me an envelope with a card. It had money in it. The money was for me to buy a plane ticket back home to New York so I could go on Recruiters Assistance Leave. She knew I could never afford to see my family and before going overseas she made it a point that I could see them again. I cried because at the time she gave it to me she had already left and she told me not to open it until she left. Years later I would return the favor by visiting her and paying her back. That act of kindness meant the world to me. I eventually graduated, went home to see my family one last time before arriving to Kadena AB Japan.
RoughKadena Days
After my recruiters assistance was done, I took a cab to the airport and started my journey to Kadena. I was excited to see what was ahead for me. As we approached the island of Okinawa, Japan I could see all the beautiful clear blue water. We finally landed at Naha Airport. I had no idea what I was doing or where I should go. I saw man in uniform holding a sign with my name on it. He came over and greeted me. His name was MSgt Waithe. He was my sponsor and ran the shop that I would be working in. He was from Brooklyn New York and so I was able to relate to him in many ways. He would become a father figure to me while I was there. Once I was settled in the dorms I was eager to see what it was like living on my own terms. I didn't have to take care of any kids, I didn't have to cook or clean for anyone else or work two jobs! I was excited! Unfortunately my eagerness started to show in the form or partying and rebellion. I was a difficult Airmen to supervise. I did not respect anyone and I wanted to live the life and the childhood I never had. My supervision finally turned me over to a SSgt Natalie Canada. She would be the first real mentor for me. It wasn't long before I would repeat my mother's decisions. I met someone much older than me, married and had a baby girl. Not long after I realized how ill-prepared I was for marriage and it too was a very violent and toxic one. Soon after the relationship did not work and we parted ways. While still on Kadena I had a few more mentors who tried to work with me, TSgt Olympia Smith, SSgt Fred McCree and SSgt LawrenceVaden would all become important figures in my life. TSgt Olympia Smith was an educated strong black woman, she taught me to pursue education and be fearless. SSgt Fred McCree would become the spiritual big brother I needed. He and his wife D'Ani took me in and showed me what family and marriage looked like. They encouraged me to keep going to church. SSgt LawrenceVaden was Security Forces. He came into my life at my lowest point. He responded to a call to my house for domestic violence. He mentored me and showed me a way out. Without him knowing years later I would marry a cop myself. After 4 painful years at Kadena, I got orders to Pope AAF. I didn't care where just as long as I got off the island was my mentality I was ready for a fresh start.
Growing Pains Pope
As I arrived to North Carolina I had no idea what to expect. I saw the humble country southern living. It was the complete opposite of what I knew growing up. Little did I know it was the very thing I needed. By this time I was a single parent and my goal was just to provide and stay above water. While assigned to the LRS there, I met a TSgt Audrey McCoy. She would be one of the most influential people I met in my life. She took me in, and mentored me beyond the military. She was smart, strong and fun to be around. All the Airmen loved working with her. She knew how to deal with difficult people, and I was one of them. Years later she would become a First Sergeant and I believe she was called for that position. While working with her she taught me about being a parent and how to take advantage of the resources the Air Force had to offer. Those were some of the best years in the military for me. Not long after she moved to another section but I would always stay in contact with her. I then met a SSgt Catrina Colvin. She was a firecracker! She was short like me but she carried a very powerful presence. She was sharp, expected high quality work and demanded respect. She taught me how to dig in the regulations. She empowered me as a Senior Airmen. She taught me the discipline I needed. She was the one supervisor that I was afraid of disappointing because she expected a lot out of me. She had a face that could check you without words. That's how powerful she was. As a young woman I needed that example. Years later she would become an MTI. She also become a lifelong mentor and friend. After 6yrs at pope I felt settled, I found a good church home and I found my niche. I was a Staff Sergeant, I was making ends meet and I was happy. Then my world hit rock bottom when I got orders to Lackland AFB. I was selected to become a Tech School Instructor. I would soon follow MSgt Catrina Colvin to Lackland as she was selected to be an MTI and I was selected to teach Supply.
Polishing Stage Lackland
I was furious! I was happy in North Carolina, I liked my job, my church home. I did not want to move! I asked my leadership how did this happen and if I could get out of it, and the answer was "No." It was difficult for me to leave Pope, just when I felt I belonged it was time to go. As I made the long drive to Lackland I questioned myself. "Why in the hell was I selected to teach? I don't even like people!?!" I had low grades in high school and I felt not qualified for the position. I was very angry. I arrived to Lackland with a chip on my shoulder. The only other relief was that my mentor was also stationed there as an MTI. I had a rough first year there. I rejected the fact I was an instructor. I was rebellious, I taught the material poorly and I did it the way I wanted to. It wasn't until I met Mrs. Lori Darbey and Keturah Reed. They both also would become lifelong mentors and friends. Their enthusiasm in teaching showed me it was fun to teach. They showed me that there were other people just like me sitting in that classroom that needed me. That put a new perspective in my mind, and I changed. I decided to go to the classroom with a purpose. Teaching became natural for me, to lecture and tell stories and empower my students. I realized I was called to teach, I just didn't know it at the time. During this time, I was also able to help translate in Spanish to students who was trying to attain their citizenship in the military. I also met CMSgt Thomas Burchett at Lackland. He opened me to new opportunities and we both shared a love for mentoring. We would go to the BMT Squadrons and mentor the new trainees before they arrived to Tech School. Those were the best times. I learned a lot from him and he would also become a lifelong mentor as well. Just as I was getting settled in, a new opportunity came. My Flight Chief came to me about a position at the Group called Protocol. They were looking for people to fill the position. This job involved escorting distinguished visitors all over Lackland and working for a Group Commander. At the time, I was not interested. I loved teaching and I wanted to stay. She encouraged me to try out anyway. I decided to go but did not have high expectations. As I arrived at the Group building, I was seated next to the other candidates trying out for the job. They were all nervous and had portfolios and bios with them. I had nothing, just myself. As I was waited, a TSgt Mark Velasquez approached me.He introduced himself and shook my hand. He would become my future husband but at the time I did not know. He was very sharp and professional. The Group Commander and Chief called me in, and asked me questions as to why I should be hired for the position. I gave them mediocre answers and went back to the schoolhouse thinking "well now that's over with , I can go back to teaching." Little did I know I was wrong. I was told a few weeks later I got the job and to pack my classroom up. My life had changed again. Unsatisfied, I packed up my classroom and graduated my last class for the year. I thought to myself, "Every time I am finally happy doing something its always time to leave, why?"
New Chapter Protocol
Just when I thought I was polished and already knew my skills there was more to learn. I was greeted on my first day by TSgt Mark Velasquez. The very first Latino mentor in my career. He carried a very strong, confident presence. He was very smart and was a strategic thinker. He would spend the next several months teaching me my job and showing me how to become an even better professional. He introduced me to professional orgs such as the 5/6 and taught me about bullet writing. Many times I resisted his teachings because at the time I didn't understand it, but he had the patience to teach me what it was important. Mark believed in me when others didn't. He earned my respect. Eventually I was able to get the hang of the job, I soon saw my Latin background and bilingual skills were an asset. There were many times we had distinguished visitors from other countries such as the Colombian Air Force. I was able to help translate those visits for my Group Commander. I also earned the LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens) award during my time there. I learned here that my culture was an asset to the Air Force. There was a place for me here. After many months Mark and I became very close friends. To my surprise I did not know he was a single parent, he kept his personal life very private. We would eventually get to know each other on a personal level and by the time we showed interest in one another it was time for him to leave. He had orders to Colorado. Eventually I thought that it was never going to last so I let it go. I was really sad to see him leave since we enjoyed many conversations on life, work, God, family. Mark left in December and PCS'd to Colorado while I stayed at Lackland. After a few more months I returned back to the schoolhouse.
As the months passed by, Mark and I kept in touch via phone. We would talk all the time and started dating. Eventually we would become engaged and marry. However we were geographically separated for 2 years. I still had to finish my assignment at Lackland and Mark had to complete his at Colorado, which also included him deploying as well. We had a long distance relationship that entire time. We flew to see each other frequently and it was hard to leave every time I saw him. After years of separation, we finally got an assignment to Eielson AFB Alaska. I was excited to finally reunite my family under one roof!
The Cold Tundra Alaska
I made the long journey to Alaska. Mark and the girls were already here and prepared the house for me. My mother was also living with me as well due to medical illnesses. It was time to finally be a family! I struggled those months trying to mergemy new family together.At work, it was the opposite. I had a great team of NCO's and Airmen I worked with. By now I was a TSgt. I was very motivated coming from the schoolhouse and I thrived in Alaska career wise. Alaska was a difficult time in my life. I was juggling marriage, parenting and taking care of my ill mother. I encountered many Airmen during this time that would confide in me. They felt comfortable talking to me about their problems. Little did I know years later that would lead up to where I am now. My husband and I struggled being married as two military members. We didn't know how to balance the home work life. After 13 months there we both promoted and we got orders to Yokota AB Japan. Off to a new start! When we broke the news to our girls one of them started crying while the other rejoiced. It was apparent there were mixed emotions. Leaving Alaska taught me the mental and physical toughness I needed to face what was ahead.
Japan AWorld Unknown
Coming to Japan was a blessing. By now my family was much more cohesive. I was exciting about sharing the new experience with them. Arriving I was told by my leadership I would be assigned to the new Special Ops CV22 Maintenance Unit. This was a very male dominated unit and I would be the Section Chief of Logistics there. This was definitely a challenge for me. This required all the professionalism and strength I had gained over the years from all my assignments and mentors. I was the only female and woman of color there. Life was not easy. Working with maintenance I had to show them early on to respect me. I took lessons from MSgt Catrina Colvin when it came to demanding respect and professionalism. I took lessons from SMSgt Audrey McCoy when it came to interacting with my Airmen and leadership. I worked there for 7 months. In those times I worked hard to learn the job, protect my Airmen and build a culture of teamwork. Often times I was told I was too motivated, too intense, and to tone it down. I didn't listen, I knew I had come to far to quit now. Soon after I would be selected to become the Assistant First Sergeant back at the Logistics Readiness Squadron.
It All Comes Together Assistant First Sergeant
I have always been drawn to helping people. In my first several months there I assistedmany members in the squadron through personal hardships. It all started to make sense. Every chapter in my life was leading up to now.I have been able to use past my experiences to help others.
Closing Comments
To summarize, I dedicate my story to every person who wants to make more of themselves. You don't have to be a statistic. You don't have to limit yourself to what others say. I challenge you to break the mold and find your purpose.
"Your life has purpose. Your story is important. Your dreams count. Your voice matters. You were born to make an impact"
-Unknown
Lessons Learned
- Be a sponge not a brick, meaning have a mindset of learning. Never pass up an opportunity to learn. Don't be the person who thinks they know it all. That will limit your growth.
- Accept new challenges, they lead to new areas of growth. Use those opportunities to add to your "rucksack or toolbox".
- You can lead at any rank, its not about position but about impact.
- Disappointment and set backs are only detours not your final destination.
- Stare vs. Glance, most people are staring at the top position in their chain of command and worrying how they are going to get there. In all reality they should be staring at the person right in front of them who is the next rank. Study what it takes to be in their position because that is your next stop.
- Don't be afraid of who you are, its ok to be different. There is a need for you in the Air Force.
- Be proactive about your goals. Don't wait for someone else to hand it to you.
BENCHMARK PAPER: DEVELOPMENTAL ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
The purpose of this paper is for you to demonstrate your ability to apply a working knowledge of the theories, terminology, and concepts of human growth and development. You will discuss your own development over your lifetime and how it relates to the developmental concepts discussed throughout this course. You will analyze your life as it relates to the key aspects of human growth and development. What are key developmental times in your life and the influencing factors that led to who you are today?
INSTRUCTIONS
You will incorporate your empirical studies related to your chosen developmental aspect of your life. Also, use the course readings or presentations to support what you propose about your own development in your paper. Depending on your life and the influences, there may be more attention placed during one period of time. You are encouraged to glean information from your mother about her pregnancy with you to see if there were any notable issues during that time. Remember to include your spiritual development with applicable research.
The body of the paper must be 8-10 pages
Excluding the title page, abstract, and reference page
Please adhere to current APA format.
You must include 8-10 peer-reviewed, relevant sources in your paper.
At least 7 of the sources must be empirical articles.
The sources must be less than 10 years old unless any of the citations are linked to an author whose work is seminal to your topic.
In addition, obtain as much information as you can about any significant events in your early childhood years. How did you do in those key developmental years? Did you approach all developmental milestones with ease, or were there challenges? Since this is a comprehensive paper, you will address your development across your lifespan.
Finally, you will conclude your paper by addressing any current lifestyle behaviors that may influence your aging process. You will address these issues, how they will affect your aging process, and what you plan to do about it. Your conclusion must offer suggestions for further study.