Women's History Month: 1st Lt. Lynsey Cross

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt
  • 109th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.Y. --  First Lt. Lynsey Cross joined the 109th Airlift Wing in 2006. She first joined for the college benefits, but said the opportunities within the Wing are what kept her here. She was commissioned in 2013.

Cross is currently assigned to the 109th Medical Group as the administration officer of the EnRoute Patient Staging System.

"The staging system is a 13-person mobile, tented, temporary staging facility that provides rapid response patient staging and limited holding," she said. "The AFSC (Air Force specialty code) requires annual training that I help to coordinate, participate and track."

Cross is also the 109th AW's Suicide Prevention Program manager. She monitors compliance and provides appropriate briefings and training throughout the base.

Outside of the military, Cross works as a substitute teacher. She has her master's degree in public health and said she is also applying for jobs where she'll be able to utilize that degree. She also does a lot of traveling and volunteering, both of which she said have helped contribute to her success within the military.

"I have been on several volunteer missions, locally and globally, and travel whenever I am able," she said. "These excursions take me out of my comfort zone, provide me with new experiences that build confidence, and have taught me how to adapt and accept."

Cross said women in the military are positive role models for youth and help pave the way for future generations of strong, confident women.

"Women's History Month is dedicated to recognizing outstanding women who have made and continue to make a positive difference in the world," she said. "It is a time for women to feel empowered and connected. I think the most important aspect of Women's History Month is that it highlights positive role models for our youth inspiring confidence for their education and career."