Originally from Myanmar, Burma, Cing is a graduate of Union High School and a member of the Oklahoma Air National Guard. Cing graduated from Union High School in 2019, but she started the process of becoming a member of the Air National Guard when she was a senior at Union.
“I started the process of joining the Tulsa Air National Guard as a senior because my AFJROCT instructors (Colonel McCool, Major Turner, and SMSgt Snow) inspired me to serve our country. I am forever grateful to these honorable men for their mentorship,” she said. “After graduating from high school, I went to Oral Roberts University for two years and completed my BMT (Basic Military Training) and Technical School during this time. Once I came back from Tech School, I decided to transfer to OSU Tulsa to utilize the state tuition waiver since the federal tuition waiver was not approved yet at the time for private schools. Another education benefit I will be using in the spring semester of 2022 is the G.I. Bill. I mention these benefits to show that the military, more specifically the Air Guard, will help you reach your educational goals and dreams by paying for your tuition.”
Now an Airman (E2) with the Oklahoma Air National Guard, Cing is making plans to turn her involvement in the military into a career.
“As of now I have not been deployed, but I have taken an AT (Annual Training) trip to Wisconsin. I got to spend time with other Airmen and got to make lifelong friendships from this trip. It was definitely one of the most unique experiences I got to have as an Airman,” said Cing. “My journey to joining the Air Guard has been interesting. I went from being an JROTC cadet to an Airman. The process was tough, but it was expected since only one percent of the U.S. population gets to wear this uniform proudly. Being in the Oklahoma Air National Guard helped me become a citizen because it waived the cost for the application.”
Cing offers this advice to anyone looking for a way to pay for college or serve their state and country.
“To the high school students who are considering joining the ANG, I would say that your Guard family will always have your back as long you are good on your end, but just be patient with them. Also, you don’t have to give up on your goals and dreams just because you decide to join the military. Keep working hard, ask questions until you get answers and give the military a chance to be a part of your success,” said Cing. “To the young people who are contemplating on joining the military or the Air Guard, I would say this is a great place to start your lives. The ANG has a place for everyone. Whether you come in knowing exactly what you want to do in life or have no idea, the Guard will give you resources to help you make a decision and give you an opportunity to keep growing in your career.”
In her free time Cing said she likes to run, spend time with family and friends and help in the Burmese community as much as she can.
