WHY I SERVE: Soldier Carries Family Legacy of Service into Military Pharmacy
As a fourth-generation Soldier, Carino carries that legacy with her each morning as she reports to the inpatient pharmacy at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. But while her family’s history helped shape her decision to serve, Carino is building a path of her own, through military service, faith education and commitment to helping others.
Carino credits much of her resilience and determination to her grandfather, Army Sgt. 1st Class Austin DeLa Cruz, who served during the Korean War. His example of discipline and sacrifice inspired her to enlist, while her faith continues to serve as a foundation in her daily life.
“My grandfather is no longer with us, but the strong values he instilled in me continue to drive me every single day," Carino said. "Even though I am not on the front lines, working here gives me a direct way to help people who are truly struggling.
As an inpatient pharmacy specialist, Carino said caring for patients receiving chemotherapy is particularly meaningful to her.
“Whether it is pushing their wheelchair to an appointment or just sitting and talking with them after a tough treatment, bringing them a moment of comfort and joy is what makes this work so incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Alongside her military responsibilities, Carino is pursuing her education through the University of Maryland Global Campus. She is currently taking four classes a week as she works toward her higher education goals and a brighter future for her family.
Despite a demanding schedule, Carino also makes time to serve others in her local community.
"I still make it a priority to find time in my schedule to give back to those who are struggling," she said. "On the weekends, you can find me out in the local community, handing out warm meals to the homeless and doing whatever I can to help those in need."
This commitment to serve extends beyond the hospital and into her work alongside fellow service members.
U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. Ashley Ortiz, the non-commissioned officer in charge, outpatient pharmacy, LRMC said Carino consistently demonstrates a willingness to take on difficult tasks and support the team.
"She has exceeded every expectation we've set for her, “Ortiz said. "Whenever a challenge arises, she steps up immediately to handle whatever needs to be done, no matter how demanding the task is.”
Ortiz said Carino maintains a positive attitude even during demanding periods, helping to create a supportive environment for both patients and staff.
“No matter how heavy the workload gets, Spc Carino meets every challenge with genuine optimism and enthusiasm," Ortiz said. "Her positive energy is absolutely contagious and immediately puts our patients at ease, making them feel genuinely cared for, while keeping morale incredibly high across the entire department."
For Carino, the different parts of her life are connected by the common purpose of serving others and honoring the example set by her family.
"I am incredibly grateful for my grandfather’s example and the strength my faith gives me every single day," Carino said. "Whether I am preparing intravenous medications, studying for my UMGC classes, or handing out meals to someone on the street, my goal is simple: to honor my family’s legacy and serve others with a full heart."
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