'CID' investigator serves, protects Yongsan community

By Cpl. Byun, Hye JoonAugust 10, 2015

'CID' investigator serves, protects Yongsan community
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea -- Heroes come in many forms. Even within our own community there are outstanding individuals who work hard every day to bring criminals to justice. Jennifer Rosas, an investigator with 21st Military Police Detachment (CID), has been receiving recognition for this exact reason in U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. She joined the team she works with in April 2015 and since has contributed in solving many cases within the Yongsan community. During a short interview, this local hero shares her experiences:

Have you always wanted to work in this field?

I've always had passion for law enforcement. When I was working as a road MP (an MP out on patrol and who answers disturbance calls), I found I was more skilled in investigative work and working with people. I already knew I had a calling for this. I know it's a privilege because that's what my supervisors emphasize at almost every meeting. It's not a right that is given to everyone and that's why I have to give my best and push through.

Do you enjoy what you do?

I love what I do. It's amazing and allows me to learn a lot. I'm still trying to absorb as much information as I can from my leaders. I can't stress enough how much my leadership has helped and taught me.

Leadership obviously plays a big role in what you do. What kind of leader do you want to become?

I want to emulate my supervisors. My team chief, Mr. Torres, will invest as much time as needed to ensure I understand a process. That's what I learned from my leaders --to teach others the right way firsthand -- and that is the type of leader I want to become.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Coordinating with people is sometimes difficult. But it's always emphasized around office to get out from behind the desk and talk to the people. You can't sit behind a phone and expect to solve cases. You have to get out in order to get the job done.

What gives you a sense of accomplishment?

I feel I accomplished something when I get that final brief that states the case was "founded," which means someone was found guilty or the case was closed. That's when I really get to release a sigh of relief, but by then I already have more cases on my desk. In the end, I don't have that much time to celebrate. I just have to keep moving on.

What keeps you motivated to do your job?

Seeing everyone in the office motivates me -- the way they work, who they are and who they are becoming. It just all inspires me to push forward. I just want to keep learning from my supervisors and from everyone.

What was the best lesson that you've learned so far?

No matter how late or how early you get called to come in to work, you have to come in motivated. Whatever the case may be, it will never help if you don't have the willingness to push yourself. You won't be able to get anywhere if you do your work just because you have to. It's the motivation that keeps you going steady. When I come in to the office and look at all the achievements and awards that my leaders have received, I say to myself, "This is what I want." It never fails to inspire me because I know I want to be in that position someday.