I am 33 years old. I currently serve on active duty in the United States Marine Corps as a Staff Sergeant. I grew up in Orange County, CA. I went to high school in Texas at the Marine Military Academy. I am currently finishing up my degree in Business Management through Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA! I have two more semesters. However, I took this past year off for work and to coordinate Toys for Tots! I look forward to five more years in the Corps before retirement. I will be stationed here in Worcester County for two more years. I look forward to working closely with the county and its leaders in every major and minor city to bring Toys for Tots into every living room in need in 2022. My goal is to make Toys for Tots a household name next year in Worcester County!!
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am one of four siblings!
Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently a career US Marine. I love taking care of my Marines, and reaching out to every community I get stationed in via Toys for Tots.
What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Cozy Corner Coffee Shoppe in Fitchburg! Mike the owner is an awesome community leader!
How long have you lived or worked in our community?
A year and a few months
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Faith and Ambrose Tendo- They are hard working people who immigrated from Africa over a decade ago. They are both heavily involved in the Worcester Community through The Liberian Association of Worcester.
Tom Lecuyer- He is also heavily involved in the Worcester Community. One of the hardest working men I know, he runs a massive outreach program here in Worcester called the South Worcester Neighborhood Center.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Hadrian’s Wall in the United Kingdom- I have always had a strong interest in ancient civilizations, one of which is the Roman Empire. They once conquered the British Isles and their Ceasar, Hadrian, had this massive wall built from one side of the main isle, to the other. It was once the final frontier of the modern ancient world. I would love to visit it and hike its length or at least a large portion of it at some point in my life.
What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
It’s a tie between Lord of The Rings, Beauty and the Beast, and The Guardians of the Galaxy.
What advice would you give to people?
Be kind and generous. Never EVER pass up the opportunity to help a child in need. Stand up for what you believe to be right, but always keep an open mind. When you debate with others who disagree with your position, always respect their right to disagree with you.
What is something on your bucket list?
Visit the North Pole. Seriously. I want to go on a expedition to see it.
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
My Pandora playlist “Guardians of the Galaxy”
What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
99! They have the best steak tips this side of Mississippi in my opinion.
If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Dwayne Johnson- He’s a huge advocate of Children’s programs. Fuel America- Great Sandwiches!
What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Even though its spelled WOR CHEST TER ya’ll say woostah.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Retired in 5. Running a nonprofit for Kids 5 years later.
(Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I was adopted, a Toys for Tots kid, and have ADHD.
What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Kodia, Alaska
Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
December 25th. I LOVE CHRISTMAS. (My tree is up all year long.)
What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A child’s smile when they get a new toy!
Who inspires you to be better?
People who donate without a motive.
What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Coffee, Pine
Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Where I’m stationed
