CINTHYA GABRIELA CRUZ TORRES

Originally from Puebla, Mexico, she moved to the United States in 2022 alongside her husband with the hope of building a life filled with purpose, growth, and opportunity.

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Starting over in a new country brought both excitement and challenges. One of the biggest obstacles she faced was language. Speaking English with an accent often made communication difficult, and during Basic Military Training, the pressure and nerves became so overwhelming that she temporarily forgot much of the English she had learned. She remembers feeling lost and unable to ask for help. Those moments pushed her far beyond her comfort zone and revealed a level of resilience she never knew she possessed.

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Being away from her family, culture, and home deeply shaped her journey. Yet through every obstacle, Cinthya learned how to move forward while holding on to the kindness, warmth, and compassion that define who she is. She feels immense gratitude toward both Mexico and the United States, loving both countries wholeheartedly because each represents an important part of her identity. One gave her roots, values, and culture; the other gave her new opportunities, growth, and a future she once only dreamed of.

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Serving in the Air Force is both a privilege and a way for Cinthya to give back to the nation that welcomed her while proudly carrying the heritage that shaped her. Her passion for medicine and military service was inspired in part by the movie Hacksaw Ridge, which reinforced her desire to care for others during their most vulnerable moments. Through her work as a medic, she discovered a deep sense of purpose in helping people heal, offering comfort during difficult times, and being someone others can rely on. One day, she hopes to become a nurse or medical provider and continue dedicating her life to helping others.

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Military service has taught her resilience, discipline, leadership, and the importance of staying calm under pressure while caring for those around her. Beyond her military duties, Cinthya remains deeply involved in service and community engagement. She currently serves as Vice President of the 28th Medical Group Booster Club, Treasurer for the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 951, and Airman Against Drunk Driving Representative for the 28th Bomb Wing. During technical training, she also served as a Teal Rope, supporting Sexual Assault Prevention and Response initiatives and assisting fellow Airmen during difficult moments.

Cinthya is especially passionate about supporting and inspiring members of the Hispanic community who may share experiences similar to her own. Through American Dream Force, she hopes to encourage immigrants and future service members by showing that resilience, compassion, and determination can open doors to incredible opportunities.

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More than anything, Cinthya hopes people remember her not for her rank, but for her heart — as someone who genuinely cared for others, served with passion, and always tried to uplift the people around her. Every chapter of her journey, whether joyful or difficult, helped shape the caring and resilient person she is today.