97 AMW Hispanic Heritage Spotlight: Chief Edgard Castillo

  • Published
  • By Amn Dallin Wrye
  • 97 AMW/PA

Learning a new language can be challenging and exciting; for some, it is vital to living their daily lives.

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Edgard Castillo, 97th Force Support Squadron superintendent, was raised in Colombia for most of his childhood and teenage years. His father took the first steps of bringing his family to the United States because he wanted a better life for his family.

“We were not well-off in Colombia,” said Castillo. “My dad had to work very hard for the little bit we had. The U.S. had a lot more to offer than Colombia.”

His father arrived in the U.S. and soon brought Castillo and the rest of his family over. The family settled in Virginia where Castillo faced different challenges.

“I spoke zero English,” said Castillo. “It was very challenging because the TV was in English, school was in English and friends spoke in English. You either learned how to speak English or you couldn’t communicate with anyone. The first six months were interesting, but after that, we knew enough English to communicate.”

Although life was challenging and his family did not have many material things, Castillo appreciated all the opportunities that the U.S. gave him.

“When I became of age I wanted to give back to this country for the opportunity it gave me and my family,” said Castillo.

Castillo is showing his respect to the country by serving in the Air force for 22 years and counting.

There are challenges we have to face in the Air Force and in our daily lives. Castillo and his family are great examples of overcoming obstacles through resiliency and determination. Castillo’s challenges serve as an inspiration to our Airmen both on and off duty. With the power of resiliency, the Air Force and its Airmen remain ready and capable to take on any future challenges.