Washington, D. C. - When Command Sgt. Maj. Tracey Anbiya enlisted in the Army on Aug. 28, 1984, she had no idea that 25 years later she would be sitting in Germany as the command sergeant major for Installation Management Command-Europe.
Like many young people fresh out of high school, she went directly to college only to realize that being away from home for the first time was a bit overwhelming. Deciding that college wasn't right for her at that point in life, she spoke to an Army recruiter. She had heard about the Army but didn't know much about it. She would quickly learn and started her Army career as a personnel administration specialist.
Anbiya, from Chesapeake, Va., has been afforded many opportunities for personal and professional growth while serving her country. She started her military career as a personnel clerk at Fort Hood, Texas, had several tours in Germany and today has returned there on an unaccompanied tour in her command sergeant major role.
Anbiya is one of 14 children; she lost her father when she was a senior in high school, leaving her mother to raise the family alone. She says her mother was her role model, ensuring she and her siblings had the skills and dedication to succeed in life.
"My mother taught and showed us how to believe in ourselves, and that regardless of our skin color or gender, we were just as good as the next person," said Anbiya.
She strives to be the same role model for her own children and for those she comes in contact in her daily contact.
Anbiya said that it wasn't until she was in the Army for about 10 years, that she decided to make it a career. She had every intention to get out, but a friend and fellow Soldier changed her mind by encouraging her that she could balance being a good Soldier with being a good mother.
While attending college may not have been for her right after high school, it did not mean it would never be. In fact, this Soldier holds Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees from the University of Maryland and a master's degree from Oklahoma University.
She has complemented her civilian education with military education such as: Basic and Advanced NCO Courses; Drill Sergeant Course; Master Fitness Course; Instructor Training First Sergeants Course; Command Sergeants Major Designee Course; Garrison Command Sergeants Major Course; Command Sergeant Major Force Management Course; and the Senior Civilian Leader Continuing Education Program.
She has positioned herself to be a role model and mentor. Her leadership philosophy is a simple one - to lead by inspiration. The sergeant major will tell you that she has learned that people are motivated by different things, but basically believes most want to do and give their best.
She believes her job is to encourage that mind set. Her advice to other women is simply to never give up. She encourages them to not be afraid to do something for the first time, even if it is something they don't want to do.
"Know yourself before you seek to be understood. You don't have to the subject matter expert in all areas just know where to find the answers," she advises.
The command sergeant major has done well in her career. She has been recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit; the Meritorious Service Medal (1st OLC); the Army Commendation Medal (3rd OLC); Army Achievement Medal (7th OLC); Global War on Terror Medal; and the Drill Sergeant Badge.
However, she believes her greatest accomplishment is that she is able to have a fulfilling career balanced with her great family life. So, how appropriate for her, as her career winds down, to be a part of the Installation Management Command - the Army's Home.
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