Angela Ramirez

Share your military spouse story:
My husband and I have been together for 10 years and he has served his country for 9 of these years. This most recent year has been difficult on us because he started his CI training school in October 2021 and graduated in February 2022. Right after this we got the news that he would be deploying to the Middle East in April 2022. All the while my husband found out that his father had been diagnosed with brain cancer and it was very difficult for us as a family. Also, as we were trying to get pregnant, last year I had a miscarriage. Having a spouse in the military has been challenging because serving his country comes first and a spouse needs to be selfless. I am very proud of my husband and all that he has accomplished in the military. I know this is his passion and have supported him through his military career. No matter what the military throws at us we have managed to stay in love and supporting each other. He surprised me with this nomination and really means a lot to me because I see that I am doing a good job of supporting him.

Share an example of your leadership experience within the military community:
Since, my husband is in the Army Reserve there are not as many leadership roles, but I did volunteer to help during the units family day. I would love to have a bigger role in the military community if this is awarded to me.

Describe your involvement in the military community:
We live close to the Riverside National Cemetery and every year I will help set flags on Veteran's Day and Memorial day for the heroes buried there. It is such a great feeling to know that I am honoring those who have bravely served our country. I take the time to read their headstone and imagine how proud their families must be. It is an honor to be able to set flags for our heroes.

Describe how you support your community:
I support my community by speaking of the importance of self care within the military spouse community. I have a couple of military spouse friend's that we get together and take care of ourselves. It is important to do self care as a spouse because at times we feel overwhelmed.

What do you advocate for? Why?
I advocate for military spouses, members, children and also animals.

How have you spread the message of your platform/advocacy?
I volunteered at my husband's family day and spoke to some of the military spouses. Also, I volunteer at an animal adoption center because I love animals.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
I hope to accomplish positive advocacy with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year title. There is a limited knowledge for Hispanic families and what the military offers and also how this will benefit their military family member. Since, I myself am Hispanic, I would hope to provide more information and support groups for those who may not understand the importance of serving our country. I would want to also advocate for more veteran programs to help them transition to civilian life.