Johnny Douglas Conner Memorial Scholarship

My name is Mario. I am 30 years old. I was born in California but was raised in Mexico. My father left when I was seven and I was raised by my mother until 12 years old when she brought me back to the United States. She left me too soon after. Like Johnny Douglas Conner, I had demonstrate hard work and determination early in life. I joined the Army to serve my country and ensure my children would have more opportunities than I did. The Army provided many opportunities for me. I was trained as an electronics technician and served as a missile systems tech. I served honorably for seven years on Active Duty. During those seven years my ambition only grew more and more. I returned to college, took classes in electrical/electronics, HVAC/R, and sharpened my leadership and management skills professionally and technically in my field. I was medically retired due to several service-connected injuries. Leaders and mentors who witnessed my drive throughout my career recommended me for my current job. Three months after my medical retirement I was called back to serve as an Army Civilian in the position of Equipment Specialist. I recently completed my first year in my new career. My official title is Equipment Specialist. Due to my expertise with missile systems and proven success record, I was offered this position and started faster than most do. I am also known as a Logistics Assistance Representative (LAR). I work with Soldiers daily and assist with maintenance, training, and logistics. My 8+ years in the Army both as a Soldier and as a Civilian I have volunteered as a youth sports coach on the military bases I have been stationed at. I have been recognized with the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) twice and have received many military coins and certificates of appreciation from the Post Commander. I have amounted over 1,500 verified volunteer hours mostly on base but also at my local YMCA. In my job, I was just awarded a “Two-Star Note” and a military coin from the Major General in my Chain of Command. The military has affected my life in a positive way through job security, volunteer opportunities, training, helping me provide for my family, and giving me a sense of purpose in life. My life has been transformed thanks to the military. I would not believe this is where I would be at 30 years old. I have a beautiful family I can care and provide for. My son and daughter have many opportunities and great military and veteran communities to support them. All of my family is proud of my service and so am I. Some systems I work with now depend on vehicle platforms. My background is not that of an auto mechanic. Therefore, I will use this scholarship to fund my auto tech education and training at South Puget Sound Community College. As a result, I will be better equipped to help Soldiers troubleshoot the vehicle side of our systems. In return, this will allow for them to accomplish the mission, get out of harm’s way, and return home to their families.