FORT KNOX, Ky. –
Staff Sgt. Victoria Ortiz is no stranger to military service. She is one of three sisters who volunteered to serve.
One of her sisters serves in the U.S. Army National Guard, the other in the U.S. Marines and Ortiz chose the U.S. Army to stay in line with her family’s tradition of service. Ortiz comes from a long line of military service which included her uncles. She looked up to them and saw a clear path for herself, following in their footsteps.
“I joined for tradition, but I needed a second chance. I was a single parent looking for structure and a safe place for my family.” said Ortiz.
Ortiz started her Army journey as a 92F petroleum supply specialist. “I am a proud petroleum supply specialist. I live for it and it’s amazing.” Her love for the career field comes from an understanding there is more to the job than what most think.
“(People) don’t’ realize there’s so much more to (the job) than just fuel,” she said.
That ability to see past the surface and dig deeper is a driving force in her success as a 92F and now as a Department of the Army-selected Recruiter.
In August 2024, Ortiz was chosen to serve as a U.S. Army Recruiter.
Ortiz is what the Army calls a detailed Recruiter. These Recruiters are selected by Department of the Army for their potential to aid in the Recruiting mission. What separates them from those who choose to recruit is that they have the opportunity to return to their original job when their recruiting time ends. Detailed Recruiters learn the process and position from more seasoned recruiters.
Ortiz was a quick study, really focusing her efforts on being the best version of herself. “I strive to be the best in my field, and I’ve been very happy with my results thus far.” she said.
Her dedication to success does not go unnoticed, as she is currently one of the top Recruiters in the United States Army Recruiting Command. Since August of 2024 Ortiz has secured placement for 38 future Soldiers and has set a personal goal of 100. These numbers reflect on her passion to excel and her commitment to duty. Lieutenant Col. Ramon Ramos, the Raleigh Recruiting Battalion commander is aware of her concerted efforts towards success. “Staff Sgt. Ortiz has mastered the craft of connecting with potential applicants. Whether it's virtually or in person, she's cracked the code on understanding the desires of potential soldiers and how the Army can meet them,” Ramos said. Her hospitality and care coupled with her ability to emphasize make her both a great Recruiter and mentor.” Ortiz said she strives to create a trustworthy environment for her applicants and offers words of wisdom to Recruiters who are seeking similar success.
“Get to know potential future Soldiers and share genuine experiences with them. Share the fact that you’re human,” she said.
She shares that she is a mother, a sister and a wife to connect with them and impart that someone can be all things while serving in the U.S. Army. She said the military has supported her on her path to success.
Ortiz said she also believes that teamwork is critical to achieving her goals.
“Everyone on my team is good at something. When there are questions about raising a family in the Army, they reach out to me, and I reach out when I’m unsure of something as well. We balance each other very well.” said Ortiz.
Another topic that Ortiz enjoys talking about is her family. She is married to a U.S. Marine and has a total of 6 children, 5 girls and 1 boy. She loves to talk about the many benefits the U.S. Army has for service members with families. “I love mentoring young parents and people that are unsure of where to turn.” She said she highlights the many support programs the Army offers to help Soldiers through all the stages of their careers and life. “Whatever I have done, they can do too. The Army offers so many possibilities.” she said.
Her dedication to those that she has helped find their path to service is evident in her success. She understands what it means to come from nowhere and build a new life for herself. Her final piece of advice? “Be authentic. The Army has a place for everyone, and no matter what you’ve gone through we can help you achieve your dreams.”