Locals On The Rise: Staff Sgt. Norma Cruz From St. Croix Making Difference In Kansas

ST. CROIX — Staff Sgt. Norma Cruz, 22nd CS resource advisor at the McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas, was recently honored with the 2015 National Image Hispanic Employment Program Manager of the Year Award, according to an article published on the Base’s website on Friday.

The honor is awarded to individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing Hispanic representation in the federal workforce.

Cruz, who was born here, graduated from Central High School in 2003. She has been in the military for 12 years, and has served in Operation Enduring Freedom — the name given to America’s anti-terrorism efforts involving U.S. and allied troops.

The outstanding Hispanic also served as a client systems technician, and was often assigned to the 52nd Communications Squadron at the Spangdahlem Air Base located in Germany.

Staff Sgt. Norma Cruz, 22nd Communications Squadron resource manager, was selected as one of two recipients of the 2015 National Image Hispanic Employment Program Manager of the Year Award. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing Hispanic representation in the federal workforce. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Rachel Waller)

Now, however, the high-achieving Crucian is an Airman assigned to the 22nd Communications Squadron, and has been doing exceptional work in Kansas on and off the job.

According to the article, Cruz’s responsibilities as a resource advisor include working directly with the commander of the 22nd CS to properly and efficiently manage a million-dollar budget.

“We trust her with the integrity of the squadron,” said Lt. Col. Samuel Miller, 22nd CS commander. “She’s the one who makes sure we get what we need, and that it’s done properly, and does a fantastic job. We have put her forward with our utmost confidence and are not surprised that she was selected.”

Her reliability and attention to detail while in uniform are enough to separate Cruz from her peers, but her contributions to society while out of uniform are what solidified her selection.

Cruz habitually helps needy families and individuals in and around Wichita, Kansas, particularly the local Hispanic community. Aside from regularly feeding less fortunate individuals, she organized a supply drive for children in low-income families who would not have otherwise had school supplies, the article notes.

“Because of the way I grew up, I know the struggles and the challenges they have, one of my biggest drives has always been giving back to the community and helping people in need,” said Cruz. “I try to help as much as I possibly can.”

Cruz is also an active member of the Team McConnell Hispanic community, and is currently a member of the Hispanic Heritage Committee, planning the biggest event for Hispanic Heritage Month, which is from Sept. 15 – Oct. 15.

“My mindset is to just help out and take care of people wherever you can,” said Cruz. “What you might take for granted, other people might need.”

Cruz is the daughter of Ana M. Soto of 21 Estate Diamond Ruby, and sister of Carmen Cruz of 27 Estate Diamond Ruby.