Army Recruiting Center in Lynbrook participates in hiring campaign

Posted

A U.S. Army Soldier currently serving at the Lynbrook Recruiting Station is participating in the service’s second all-virtual Army National Hiring Days event being held until June 14.

Staff Sgt. Rafael DeJesus recently celebrated 12 years of service and has received extensive training as a signal support systems specialist.

“I joined the Army because I wanted to provide a better future for my wife and daughter,” DeJesus said, according to a news release. “I want the people of Lynbrook to understand that there is more to the Army than what they see in movies or on the news.”

DeJesus, who is originally from Puerto Rico, has earned two associates degrees, technical certification in CompTIA Security+, and is currently working on his bachelor degree in management since enlisting in 2008.

“The most valuable benefit for me has been that I am not only setting an example to my daughter by continuing my higher education but also being able to ensure her future education as well.” DeJesus said.

Throughout his career, DeJesus has been stationed in Georgia, Kansas and Hawaii. Since August, he has worked as a recruiter to help individuals in Lynbrook choose a career path that fits their personal goals. In recent months, he has helped a 26-year-old man join as an infantry recruit with a signing bonus and a 23-year-old woman fulfill her dream of being able to continue her education by using the Army Tuition Assistance program and the Forever Post 9/11 bill.

“I have found that most people in this area have been interested in adventure, the education benefits, technical training that will help them with future career opportunities,” DeJesus said. “They are most surprised when I tell them that not only am I an active duty soldier, but I also attend college online and that my education is fully paid by the Army.”

DeJesus will be stationed in Lynbrook  until October 2023 and plans to continue serving until he is able to retire in October 2028, finish his educational goals, and return back to his hometown.

“The best part about serving in Lynbrook has been meeting the people and getting to know the community as a whole,” DeJesus said.

The Lynbrook Recruiting Station is available to provide information about the more than 150 career options available in the Army along with benefits, such as health insurance, training and certifications, and tuition assistance.

The Army offers up to $40,000 in signing bonuses or student loan reimbursement of up to $65,000, depending on qualifications, selected occupation, and length of the service contract.

Interested applicants can call (516) 825-1448, stop by the office at 65 Atlantic Ave., or learn more by visiting www.GoArmy.com/hiringdays.

 

Courtesy Lynbrook Recrutiing Station; compiled by Mike Smollins