Growing up, most kids aspire to be like their parents. Every child believes that success comes from making their parents proud. For Airman Treyton-Thomas Juopperi, his mother’s sacrifice inspired him to follow in her footsteps.
Army Staff Sgt. Carletta Davis was a health care specialist and combat medic who served multiple tours in Iraq. She was killed November 5, 2007 when her Humvee struck an improvised explosive device. Juopperi was shattered by his mother’s death. “I just sat there and watched my dad cry. It was weird to see him cry,” said Juopperi
The day Carletta Davis died, the Pentagon reported that the number of American troops killed in Iraq set an unwelcome record as the worst year yet, topping the 849 deaths in 2004.
Through his struggles, Juopperi began to see the importance of the sacrifice his mother made. Although initially angry at the military, and not having a gung-ho mindset about serving the United States, he thought, “Why should my mom give her life for the country?”
While thinking about what to do with his life whilst in college, Juopperi said he decided to dedicate his life to something like what his mother did- “Or at least half as good as she did” – he says.
Carletta was awarded two air medals, a rare feat, and earned the prestigious combat medical badge. She also earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. She twice received awards for heroism — for rescuing two soldiers who had fallen down a cliff near Ft. Lewis, Wash., and for rescuing a wounded Iraqi police officer.
Juopperi soon realized why his mother served, and decided to join the Air Force,, as she told him if he were to join the military, she hoped he would be wearing the Air Force Uniform. The decision came easy to him, and he promised himself he would not settle for mediocrity.
Juopperi went to Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas to learn technical training for aircraft electrical and environmental systems.
“Even in the operational Air Force, I will go forth and put 110 percent into everything I do,” he said. “Even if it’s desk work, volunteer work, training or a [reclassification], everything I do, I plan to put my best effort into it.”
With five brothers who look up to him, Juopperi says its important he does things right.
“You never know who is watching or whose life you are going to impact that day,” he said. “In the end, it came down to one question: What kind of person do you want to be?”
Military Connection proudly serves those who serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Guard and Reserve, Veterans and their Families. We are the go to site for Veteran Employment and information on Veteran education. Militaryconnection.com provides Veterans with and Directory of Employers, a Job Board, information on the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and a blog that offers Veterans boundless information. Be sure to visit Militaryconnection.com, the go to site.
Military Connection: Inspired Service Pays Tribute: By Debbie Gregory
Dive into World War II's finest literature, perfect for history buffs and those seeking captivating…
Explore 7 Pivotal Moments in US Military History: From the Birth of the Continental Army…
Explore a diverse group of military influencers and veterans as they share their unique experiences,…
Understanding Agent Orange Effects, VA Benefits, and Veteran Support: A Comprehensive Guide for Vietnam War…
Explore the top ten must-read books about World War One, including memoirs, historical non-fiction, and…
Discover the enduring legacy of Vietnam Veterans and the profound impact of the Vietnam War…