WHM profile: 1st Lt. Euleeondra Haughton

Courtesy Photo | 2nd Lt. Euleeondra Haughton stands with her parents after receiving her commission. (courtesy photo)  

WY, UNITED STATES

03.25.2022

Story by Airman 1st Class Charles Munoz 

90th Missile Wing

“I’m the first woman on either side of my family that has served in the military,” said 1st Lt. Euleeondra Haughton, a combat crew commander at the 320th Missile Squadron. “My father, my grandfathers on both sides, and my uncles have served.”

Haughton’s decision to commission into the Air Force took her family by surprise, and she has received considerable support from them since joining.

“Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and support has been so refreshing to have behind me,” said Haughton. “I’ve told my father that since I’ve joined, all I wanted to do was beat his achievements. I might be a little biased, but I believe I’m on track to do just that.”

The Air Force does not have a positive reputation in the area where Haughton grew up. It is believed that women, especially African American women, do not belong in the Air Force. After joining, she became a role model for other women looking to follow in her footsteps.

“I decided to commission to show another route that most individuals where I’m from didn’t even know was there,” said Haughton. “I’ve had numerous women reach out through my time, specifically in ROTC, because they saw me around campus.”

Out of the women that have approached Haughton to inquire about commissioning into the Air Force, some of them have succeeded in their journey to do so.

“It truly warmed my heart seeing them join, attempt and some succeed in commissioning into the Air Force,” said Haughton.

Even though Haughton has primarily experienced success so far in her Air Force career, she has also had to overcome obstacles and deal with stereotypes held by other individuals. She recounts one time where one of her classmates in tech school had used a racial slur in front of her.

“I can’t say for sure if they were comfortable using it because I was a woman and assumed I wouldn’t speak up,” said Haughton. “But I did. I corrected them, and to my relief, my other classmates spoke up and defended me. I wasn’t expecting the support that I received but it made it prevalent that there was more fighting for you than against you in this community.”

Haughton continues to work at 320 MS to ensure security, coordinate maintenance and maintain proficiency with the weapon system. Working with people she enjoys brings her much job satisfaction.

“The community we have amongst missileers is a huge support system,” said Haughton. “The best things are that you’re never alone in the field and you always have someone to call and joke with if need be. The best part of this career field are the phenomenal people.”

• Date Taken: 03.25.2022
• Date Posted: 03.25.2022 18:23
• Story ID: 417190
• Location: WY, US