My first year in high school was an ordeal; not knowing the language put me at a disadvantage and affected my grades and impeding interaction with the other students. I felt alone and out of place. It was also a shock to my self-esteem because in Honduras I was an A+ student. It seemed difficult to imagine the American dream.

I was thankful to have a roof over my head and parents who loved me unconditionally, and I knew things would get better. “Education is power,” my dad repeated like a mantra. Following his “mantra,” I learned English, graduated from high school and went to the University of New Orleans. During my second year of college, I realized I wanted to help my parents financially; the only choice I felt I had was to quit college and get a full-time job. Then I learned of the opportunities for higher education offered by the U.S. Navy, especially the Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program (BDCP). The BDCP is a scholarship opportunity that allows students to go to a four-year university of their choice, providing financial assistance up to $155,000 that can be used to cover tuition, books, rent, and living expenses. The program allows participants to attend college without having to wear a uniform. It seemed like a dream come true.

LT. Cordon during a shoot.

During deployment to the Persian Gulf in 2001.

When I decided to join the Navy, my parents had mixed emotions. My father had strong convictions about women’s roles in the military but in time he saw the changes in me. I became more assertive, cultured, and eloquent. He liked what he saw and changed his mind. Now my parents are the strongest supporters of my naval career.

During my career, I’ve served on board several ships as well as at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego. In 2004, I changed career fields from the Supply Corps to Human Resources, reporting to Millington, Tenn., as Navy project officer. Currently, I’m assigned to the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute as resource management director for over 130 staff personnel.

LT Cordon’s son.

LT Cordon in front of helicopter.

The American dream seemed so elusive at 13 years old, yet 20 years later I can say that I’ve made it a reality. The Navy provided me the training, education, and leadership tools to be successful and make a difference. I completed my master’s degree and I’m currently working on my doctorate degree. I’ve had the opportunity to travel the world and live the Navy Core Values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. I am also happily married with one child.

It is an immense privilege to serve the country that has given me so much. I am proud to call myself a United States Navy officer.

By LT Delmy Cordon, USN