First tell us something about HM2 Wilton

I am a Petty Officer Second Class in the United States Navy.  My job title is Hospital Corpsman; my specialty is Field Medical Technician which is the Navy equivalent to a Combat Medic.  I’ve been in the Navy for almost eight years.  Prior to being stationed in Seoul I was at Second Battalion, Sixth Marines: An infantry battalion out of Camp Lejeune, NC.  I was there for three years which included two deployments including one to Fallujah, Iraq. 

I was born in Oakland, CA.  At aged five we moved to England where I stayed until I was 26.  England is my home country for all intense and purposes: I grew up there and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business from there.  My parents and both my brother and sister live there still.  I left England to join my fathers ‘and grandfathers’ footsteps.  Both of whom were in the Navy. Eight amazing years later it remains the best decision I have ever made. 

How long have you been a Member of NCOA? I’ve been a member since February 2010. 

What other Organizations to you belong to?

I am my Unit’s Hye Shim Won Orphanage coordinator and honorary member of the First Class Petty Officer Association.  

What type of Volunteer service do you provide to the Organizations you are a member of?

I’m the secretary of the Yongsan Chapter of the NCOA as well as a trustee.  I assist with fund raising events and membership drives.  As the CNFK Orphanage coordinator I organize visits, provide transportation and I help plan and organize the Orphanage Christmas party at the Navy Club each year.  As an honorary member of the First Class Petty Officers Association I have assisted in fund raising events including a burger burn to raise money for the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, and helped raise money for a Bowling trip for the junior enlisted. 

Other volunteer work includes helping out the local Cub Scout troop teaching them first aid, as well as assisting in the local Feed the Homeless initiatives. All my volunteer hours resulted in being awarded the USAG Yongsan Volunteer Service Gold Award in April of this year. 

Why do you think it's important to join such Organizations and why do you volunteer your time in supporting them?

I volunteer my time because it makes me feel good and it helps me give back to others as veterans and other volunteers have in turn helped provide for me through lobbying Congress.  Being in the service is not just a job; it’s a way of life.  Service to others and our country.  For our country: As service members we are ambassadors of the United States and through our actions and good will gestures we solidify the lasting friendship between the Republic of Korea and the United States and at the same time we are showing our gratitude to their hospitality.  

For others:  Each time we raise awareness of the NCOA and sign up a new member the organization grows stronger and our voice gets louder.