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News | Sept. 29, 2017

Enlisted Corps Spotlight for October

By U.S. Strategic Command

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Victor D. Cruz, superintendent of Plans and Policy Directorate (J5) administration, hails from Ceiba, Puerto Rico and Williamsburg, Virginia, and has served in the military for 15 years. 

 

Q: How does your job support USSTRATCOM and our missions?

 

A: I directly support the J5 with all administrative processes and procedures. We manage and ensure quality control of packages through the task management tracker for awards, decorations and evaluations for our personnel. I ensure tasks are completed in a timely manner and reach the J5 and the commander of U.S. Strategic Command for signature and review to be received by the Joint Staff.

 

Q: What do you find most rewarding about your work at USSTRATCOM?

 

A: I find it rewarding to work alongside other branches [of service] to accomplish the mission. Not everyone gets to serve alongside other branches for a four-year tour. 

 

Q: What has been a challenge for you regarding your work at USSTRATCOM and how have you overcome that challenge?

 

A: The biggest challenge here is due to it being a joint environment. We all have different ways of accomplishing tasks, its finding a common ground, and ensuring that the task at hand is done efficiently and effectively, meeting everyone’s intent.

 

Q: What has been your most memorable experience in the military?

 

A: Serving as operations noncommissioned officer for a counter improvised explosive devices unit in Afghanistan. My job was to ensure the safety of personnel via convoy throughout Afghanistan.  Although it was a very dangerous job to convoy on a day-to-day basis outside the wire, getting to serve along with people from other countries in Afghanistan was by far my most rewarding experience, and today I still maintain friendships with people from all over the world.

 

Q: What is the one piece of information or advice about working at USSTRATCOM that you'd pass on to new members of the USSTRATCOM team?

 

A: Come with an open mind. Everyone accomplishes their tasks differently, be patient and let the process work. Last but not least, keep your mind on the mission, it’s why we are here.