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News | March 25, 2020

DLA Aviation Women’s History Month Spotlight: Moraima Lugo-Millán

By DLA Aviation Public Affairs Office

March is Women’s History Month. The theme this year is “Valiant Women of the Vote,” honoring “the brave women who fought to win suffrage rights for women, and who continue to fight for the voting rights of others.” This week, the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation spotlight shines on Moraima Lugo-Millán, who is a chemist in the Engineering Directorate.

Name: Moraima Lugo-Millán

Title: chemist, Engineering Directorate, DLA Aviation

How long have you worked for DLA? 15 years

What does the 2020 National Women’s History Month mean to you? Being a minority and a woman, the 2020 National Women’s History Month means a lot to me. It’s the observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history and a great opportunity to reflect on the brave leaders that have paved the way for women like me and have achieved meaningful changes in our society.

Tell us something unique about your heritage, country of origin or family traditions. I am originally from Puerto Rico. Regardless of Hurricane Maria that hit the island two and a half years ago and the current earthquakes affecting the Southwestern part, Puerto Rico is still the “Enchanted Island.” Puerto Ricans are very strong, resilient and work hard to overcome any adversity. It’s a beautiful place; a paradise with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls and beaches. People are caring, warm, loving and happy. The food is delicious!

What misconception about your heritage or country of origin would you like to correct? Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and an unincorporated U.S. territory. Puerto Ricans have been citizens of the United States since 1917. You do not need a passport when you travel to Puerto Rico. It's like going anywhere within the U.S. All you need is a driver's license or another valid form of photo ID.

In light of the theme for this observance, the success of women winning the right to vote, what do you consider one of your most important accomplishment that you would like to share? This accomplishment can cover any topic: health, academia, professional, etc. My proudest accomplishment has been accepting a job offer outside Puerto Rico, adapting to the change, and starting a new life on my own.  

Tell us a little-known fact that most people don’t know about you. I was a missionary in France, Spain, Belgium, Costa Rica, Guatemala and El Salvador.

How important is it to you that Defense Logistics Agency Aviation recognize this month? It’s extremely important that our agency recognize this month because women today still face equal rights, treatment, pay and harassment issues.  Women have an important role building this nation and sometimes their contributions go unnoticed. 

What do you want the DLA Aviation workforce to take away from celebrating this particular month? I proudly support the warfighters on a field where women have stood out and broken barriers to serve our nation.  Women are strong, capable, smart and can accomplish anything they put their minds to.  We should increase consciousness and knowledge of women's history to remember the contributions of notable and ordinary women all around the world.