By Amy Fouraker
American people have many constitutional rights that were established by the founding fathers. These rights have been preserved for centuries by the dedication and sacrifice of men and women like Jessica Rivera, 28.
Rivera, a three time Iraq veteran, joined the army in 2002 where she was a sergeant working in communications. Her experiences in service were both eye opening and rewarding. She believes it will take generations for the Iraqi people to overcome their oppression, but is optimistic about the country’s future.
“There are some days that you question what you’re fighting for and there are other days that it is apparent that you made someone’s life better,” she said.
“There are still going to be struggles for the people. For the most part, women are able to go to school now, there is better education, and now there is no pressure of dictatorship.”
Rivera returned to the United States after eight years of service and is currently a student at Daytona State College. Being a veteran herself, she was familiar with the hardships of adjusting to life outside of the military and thinks the biggest challenge is the lack of structure.
“It’s a big change. When you are in the military, you know when you’re going to get up and when you’re going to eat. It’s a disciplined lifestyle. Once you leave the military, life is not disciplined at all,” she said.
“You have to get that discipline you had in the military and use it to get the knowledge and support you need. It’s a different beast just trying to be your own person.”
Rivera joined the Falcon Veterans Society and became the first female president last semester. The club hosts an event each semester on campus that supplies information and resources to those who have served in the military. Last semester, at the event “Salute to the Veterans”, organizations such as Veteran Affairs and the American Legion participated.
The club also promotes awareness about the challenges veterans face when reintegrating into civilian life. For some veterans, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, drug abuse and suicidal thoughts occur during this time. Teachers and other students should be aware that activities such as school and homework can add stress on veterans who are readjusting, affecting their ability to cope. Rivera believes the club can be utilized to ease the transition.
“We try to help veterans and their families as much as possible. Helping them around campus, listening to them and having fun are the club’s primary goals,” she said.
Falcon Veterans Society advisor, Miguel Rivera, thinks Rivera’s dedication to the club and community is commendable.
“Jessica has been a great access to the Falcon Veterans Society. She is a committed veteran whose heart is to help her fellow soldiers and provide support when needed. She has volunteered many hours of her time at Daytona State College with the Falcon Veterans Society and in the community,” he said.
Rivera plans on continuing her education by entering into DSC’s physical therapy assistant program in September of this year. She will continue her involvement with the FVS and encourages students who have not served in the military to reach out.
“If you are a veteran, I just want to thank you for your service and don’t be afraid to come to the club meetings if you need help or want to help others as a liaison,” she said.