Kenyan Man Overcomes Challenges to Find Success in the US Military

The United States Air Force recently highlighted the inspiring story of Senior Airman Larry Okero, stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

Okero, a Kenyan native, overcame significant obstacles in his early life to become an esteemed member of the U.S. military. Born in Kenya, Okero was abandoned by his mother at the age of three when she immigrated to the United States seeking better opportunities. For the next 14 years, he faced an unstable and challenging existence, grappling with limited resources.

Okero reveals that while his mother sent money for his support, much of it was misused by those entrusted with his care. A turning point came when an uncle enrolled him in a boarding primary school, providing Okero with much-needed stability and allowing him to focus on his education. Initially, adjusting to the structured environment proved difficult but Okero persevered and dedicated himself to his studies.

Shortly before his 18th birthday, he reunited with his mother in the United States and continued his education in high school. Adapting to a new culture and overcoming the language barrier presented further challenges. After graduating, Okero initially set his sights on a career in military cybersecurity, but his struggles with the English language posed an obstacle.

Following his religious affairs training, Senior Airman Larry Okero’s first assignment took him to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Soon after arriving, he deployed overseas, finding himself in an environment that, in some ways, mirrored the structured setting of his boarding school days. However, this deployment offered an unexpected opportunity for Okero to leverage his interpersonal skills and make a positive impact. He connected with personnel from a maintenance unit, offering support and fostering meaningful connections in unscripted moments.

One particularly impactful experience involved a struggling friend whom Okero helped navigate a difficult personal situation through attentive listening and support. This experience not only solidified Okero’s belief in the transformative power of genuine human connection but also revealed the profound impact he could have on the lives of others.

“My job allows me to truly change people’s lives,” Okero reflects “and during my deployment, I felt the impact even more. Having a conversation with someone and witnessing their smile and laughter the next day showed me the significant difference I could make.”