Sonia Garza's love of service began while a student at Sam Houston State University. "The school's motto is ‘The measure of a life is its service,'" she explained, "and it is that founding principal that has guided my decision to serve in capacities that serve my greater community."

Her belief that community service is part of the military lifestyle is what has led to her being named the 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Joint Base Lewis-McChord Spouse of the Year. 

An Army spouse of 14 years and a DuPont resident for the past six years, Garza has endured the deployments of her husband CW3 Armando Garza, 1^st Special Forces Group. Although the separations presented hardships, Garza made involvement in her community a priority. She served in her local Family Readiness Group and launched Spouse Connexion, an online magazine platform that helps military spouses connect.

Of her lengthy list of accomplishments, Garza is most proud of the work she has done since the pandemic began in March, 2020. With her husband deployed and her children at home, she remained determined to be a presence in the community.

"That is when a role for the JBLM Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Fellowship Program Manager became available," explained Garza.

"This position allowed for me to be home with my children, at a time when there were no other options. Since starting that position, I have been able to give back and help numerous military spouses find meaningful employment opportunities that work for this particular lifestyle."

Garza also continued to remain connected to her professional development through schooling and certification programs.

"I'd like to encourage spouses to continue to go after what you believe in and to stay committed to what you want. There is a way to accomplish your goals; there are resources out there to help; and I am here to support you in that journey."

That kind of determination to serve was noticed.

"Her larger goal has always been helping military families connect to their local communities and get beyond the base," her nomination reads. 

"Sonia is consistently and selflessly serving our military and local community year after year."

Prior to March 1, there were 21 spouses (three per branch of service) from the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, National Guard, Coast Guard and Space Force in the running for the overall Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year Award. After March 1 there will be seven finalists remaining in the competition. A final vote will be conducted on March 10-11 to determine the overall winner. An awards luncheon will be held May 5 at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, Virginia to coincide with National Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

"I am incredibly humbled and blessed to be nominated for this award," concluded Garza.

"I would be thrilled and honored to hold the title alongside so many amazing military spouses ... and I would like to see connection and impact grow in our community."

To vote for the overall winner on March 10-11, visit https://msoy.afi.org/the-program.