From rural roots to AF leadership: Senior Master Sgt. Nancy Chavez Mozingo Published Oct. 4, 2024 By Senior Airman Miyah Gray 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Senior Master Sgt. Nancy Chavez Mozingo, 97th Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant, has always had values of service and community. The youngest of 12, Chavez Mozingo grew up in Tracy, a small town in Northern California, where her connection to those around her helped shape who she is today. “Because (Tracy) was such a rural area, it was a pretty tight-knit community where everyone knew everyone,” said Chavez Mozingo. “You helped out, you did what needed to be done; I think that's one of the biggest things for me, helping people along the way to reach their goals, to be successful in whatever that may be.” Chavez Mozingo joined the Air Force in 2002, inspired by two of her brothers who were actively serving in the Marine Corps and the Army. Since her passion to help others was a priority growing up, she became a first sergeant. “As a first sergeant, I help my Airmen in any way that I’m able to,” she said. “I help them navigate through whatever’s necessary in order for them to concentrate on and get after what’s important: accomplishing the mission. Whether that’s helping them through a financial situation, issues at work, or even just recognizing them for their accomplishments. There’s no limit to helping, every Airman is unique and deals with unique situations. I’m always learning as much as I’m helping them out.” She said that though her father was a rancher and her mother took care of other responsibilities around the ranch, her parents were always focused on giving their children a brighter future. “Ultimately, my parents wanted us to have an education, to thrive and fulfill whatever our version of the ‘American Dream’ was,” she said. “Although my father didn't get to experience it, I think he saw his dream fulfilled through his children. We had the opportunity for education, but he dropped out of school out of necessity. He had to work in order to support his family even before he was an adult. I could have had a completely different outcome if it wasn't for my parents and their sacrifice. They did a lot of hard work and I’m thankful not to have had to go through that same experience.” Although Chavez Mozingo’s life now looks very different from that of her parents, the lessons and values from her upbringing remain with her. Her deep commitment to service, and her strong belief in family and community, continue to be the guiding principles of her life. “I don’t live in that rural area anymore, but I will always remember where I came from,” she said. “We all come from different backgrounds, and that diversity is what makes our military strong. It shows that no matter where we come from, we can unite for a common purpose. For me, treating everyone like family is key. I’ll be there for you, support you, and do whatever I can to help, because that’s what family does.”