Fernandez: Learn from good leaders

By Delawese Fulton, The Fort Jackson LeaderJune 3, 2009

Fernandez: Learn from good leaders
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Fernandez: Learn from good leaders

Delawese Fulton, The Fort Jackson Leader

Rank, name

Staff Sgt. Betsy Maria Fernandez

Unit

Task Force Marshall

Military Occupational

Specialty / Job title

92F30, petroleum supply specialist / drill sergeant

Years in service

15 years

Family

Married with one daughter

Highest education

Master of Business Administration

Hobbies

Working out, going to the movies, spending time with her family

FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- During her 15 years of military service, Staff Sgt. Betsy Maria Fernandez has served with the National Guard and Army Reserves, and has been deployed to Saudi Arabia.

She has been assigned to Durham, N.C. as a National Guard Soldier and reservist, Fort Bliss, Texas and Fort Jackson.

A drill sergeant since 2004, Fernandez said the support of her family and military leaders have made her achievements possible.

"I was fortunate that I had good NCOs who guided me and helped me develop as a Soldier," Fernandez said. "My chain of command supported me a lot in my education and never denied me of enrolling in school to attend night classes while on active duty.

"If I ever was in a field training exercise, (my leaders) would allow me to go back to the rear to school and return back to the FTX. The support was great. And when I became an NCO, I made sure that I took care of my Soldiers the same way and set the example for them."

She also credits her husband, Carlos Perez, and her mother, Gladys Mota, for helping her and inspiring her to do better.

"My husband is a great example of what a Soldier should be. He always takes care of his Soldiers and always puts their need before his own," she said. "My mother, Gladys Mota, has helped me care for my daughter since she was born."

Fernandez said her mother has helped her to be able to continue her military career.

"My next goal is to become an officer and incorporate the knowledge that I have learned as an NCO," Fernandez said.

She advises junior enlisted Soldiers to "take care of their careers and always look for advancement and never limit themselves. Learn from good leaders and emulate their traits. Always take care of yourselves and your education."

We salute you!