In this episode, we're joined by Rebecca Burdick, a dedicated Marine and single mother who shares her journey through the ups and downs of life in the Marine Corps. From her roots in Port St. Lucie, Florida, to her current role as a Motor T operator and NCO at the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF), Rebecca opens up about the challenges she's faced, including being a single parent in the military and the impact of sexual harassment and assault.
Rebecca also highlights the importance of supportive leadership, the power of resilience, and her commitment to staying in the Corps despite the obstacles. She discusses her involvement in the Lean In Circles at her command, which focus on bridging the gap between male and female Marines and Sailors, addressing domestic abuse, and improving the understanding of pregnancy and parenthood in the military.
Key Takeaways:
- Family and Upbringing: Rebecca shares her background, growing up in a tight-knit family with diverse cultural roots, and how her grandfather's naval service inspired her to join the military.
- Challenges in the Marine Corps: From struggling with test-taking to navigating the difficulties of being a single mother and dealing with sexual harassment, Rebecca's story is one of perseverance and strength.
- Motor T and Career Development: Rebecca chose to enter the Motor T field, driven by her desire to challenge stereotypes and her love for logistics. She discusses the opportunities this MOS offers for life after the Marine Corps.
- Lean In Circles: As the chairman of the Lean In Circles at CBIRF, Rebecca is actively working to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all Marines, addressing issues like domestic abuse and the integration of the Athena and Artemis programs.
- Balancing Parenthood and Service: Rebecca talks about the difficulties of balancing her career and her responsibilities as a mother, especially with a child in the EFMP program, and how she's managing to pursue further education and career goals.
- Future Aspirations: Looking ahead, Rebecca is focused on continuing her education, potentially pursuing a pilot's license, and considering whether to stay on the enlisted side or transition to an officer role.
Connect with Rebecca:
- Facebook: Rebecca Burdick
- Instagram: @rebeccaa_burdick
Join Us Next Time: Tune in for our next episode where we continue to explore the experiences of inspiring leaders in the military community. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favorite podcast platform.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Marine Corps, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
