“...I wanted to pay it forward…”

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Tristan D. Viglianco
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs

“I was born in Vietnam and when I was three my family moved to the United States. I was the youngest of seven siblings, so I grew up with a lot of mentors in my life. My biggest mentor was my dad. He was a very selfless, hardworking guy who was always trying to help people out. He instilled the intrinsic value I have for trying to help people and I wanted to pay it forward. I believe everyone has struggles and can benefit from guidance even if they don’t like to admit it. So when I see people struggling, I want to lend a hand and try my best to help them out. I want to lead by example and take care of the people around me, and I hope they pay it forward and do the same. If I can make a positive impact on people, I hope that impact is exponential.”


Senior Airman Tam Ly, 9th Medical Group public health technician


Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan