Yniguez was one of six people featured in the Navy’s “Beyond the Call” campaign to promote diversity and recruit people from different backgrounds. She was recently assigned to be the Navy representative on the secretary of defense’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Joint Task Force.
Where are you from and how did you get to Washington, D.C.?
I was born in Tucson, Ariz., and raised in Flagstaff. I moved to Washington, D.C. as directed by the U.S. Navy to serve as the deputy diversity officer for Navy Medicine.
Why did you join the Navy?
I joined the Navy because I always dreamed of giving back to my country through military service.
What does it mean to get honored in the “Beyond the Call”?
I am humbled to be featured in “Beyond the Call,” due to the fact that I never thought of myself as doing anything but what was expected of me. I believe there is so much more that I can do, that we all can do for the future of our children.
Why is diversity important in the Navy?
Diversity is a strategic imperative for the U.S. Navy. In order to continue to be successful we must reflect the face of the nation. We have a responsibility to those who have gone before us, who created this great nation and to those serving today. We must educate everyone through inclusion. We cannot afford to leave anyone behind.
What’s your favorite thing about living in D.C.?
My favorite aspect of D.C. is the diverse population. I love to hear different languages and talk to people about their unique cultures. It is a wonderful experience for me and my children to meet different people.
– Scott McCabe
