Building a Better Life

Photo By Sgt. Tricia Andriski | Staff Sgt. Eboney Hobson, a helpdesk technician at the Massachusetts National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters, sits with her grandmother, who has taught her the importance of hard work and building a better life for oneself. (courtesy photo)  

MA, UNITED STATES

03.23.2021

Story by Sgt. Tricia Andriski 

Massachusetts National Guard Public Affairs

Working hard and striving to build a better life are strengths that can be passed down through generations. It takes spirit and drive to forge a better life, just as Staff Sgt. Eboney Hobson, a helpdesk technician at the Massachusetts National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters, has done for herself.
Hobson’s grandmother, Amphan Yanthanee, was also a hardworking woman. Living in Thailand for the first part of her life, she worked as a nurse in the Thai Air Force.
“I wanted to help the people,” Amphan said.
At the hospital, Amphan also assisted American Soldiers who were sent there for treatment amid fighting in Vietnam.
During this time, she met an American Soldier whom she married and moved to the United States with. Although Amphan and her husband eventually separated, she was able to find work at Thai restaurants as a cook and took classes to learn English. She worked two jobs to support her family in the United States and in Thailand.
Hobson admires the determination her grandmother showed over the years.
“That’s why I work so hard,” Hobson said, reflecting on her grandmother’s determination.
Hobson’s decision to join the military came out of her desire to take care of her own family.
“The only person in my family who supported my decision to join the military was my grandmother,” Hobson said. “It was my conscious decision to join, so I did it whole-heartedly.”
Since joining, Hobson’s years of service have been a difficult but rewarding journey.
After giving birth to her daughter, Hobson was deployed.
“I went for a year; I left before she turned one,” Hobson said.
Being in a leadership position has allowed Hobson to develop relationships with her Soldiers and build camaraderie. She also has important relationships outside the military.
“I have an open support system at home and that’s what helps me,” Hobson said.
Outside the military, Hobson’s grandmother inspired her to work as a wellness guide, practicing yoga, reiki and sound therapy.
“She inspired and sparked my interest in the healing arts,” said Hobson.
Hobson has utilized the opportunities available through the National Guard to build a better life for herself. She has been able to attain her goals of taking care of her family and going to school. She was able to buy a home, using a Veterans Affairs home loan, and can pay for her daughter’s college tuition through the 9/11 G.I. Bill transfer.

• Date Taken: 03.23.2021
• Date Posted: 04.26.2021 12:49
• Story ID: 394765
• Location: MA, US