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Fort Lauderdale, Florida – U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Erwin Zamoravega grew up in Manzanillo, Cuba, where water shortages and power outages were part of daily life. Despite the hardships, he was determined to build a better future.
“Growing up in the communism of Cuba was difficult for my family,” Zamoravega said. “I wanted a life where my hard work equaled freedom or opportunity.”
At 18, his family immigrated to the United States through the family reunification program. He worked construction jobs to help support his household, but felt a calling to serve the country that gave them a new start.
At the age of 23, he enlisted in the Marine Corps.
Zamoravega began his military career as a combat engineer with the 8th Engineer Support Battalion at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. His background in construction helped him take on early leadership roles, including platoon sergeant during a deployment to Africa. But his leadership flourished on recruiting duty.
Now stationed in Florida, he works with high schools and local communities, using his bilingual skills and personal story to connect with potential recruits.
“His drive is internal and constant, fueled by a genuine passion for the Marine Corps and a relentless commitment to excellence,” said Gunnery Sgt. Stewart Jenkins, Zamoravega’s station commander. “Whether he’s mentoring a poolee or engaging a community leader, he represents the Marine Corps with pride and precision.”
“I’m not just recruiting Marines,” Zamoravega said. “I’m helping people find a future where hard work can unlock opportunity.”
One of those people was his younger brother, Marine Corps Cpl. Darwin Zamoravega.
“I felt compelled to follow in his footsteps and always strive for self improvement,” Darwin said. “Serving alongside my brother is special because we’re giving back to the country that welcomed us with open arms.”
Darwin now serves as a heavy equipment mechanic with Combat Logistics Battalion 22 in North Carolina. The brothers remain close, often exchanging advice and encouragement.
On July 2, Erwin was meritoriously promoted to staff sergeant. The month prior, he was named Recruiter of the Quarter, an honor awarded to Marines who demonstrate exceptional performance and initiative.
“Staff Sgt. Zamora’s work ethic and enthusiasm are, without fail, unmatched,” said Maj. Gregory Mateo, commanding officer of Recruiting Station Fort Lauderdale. “He doesn’t just work hard, He attacks his everyday duties with the tenacity and fervor that have won Marines battles for two and a half centuries. It’s impossible to leave an engagement with Staff Sgt. Zamora, without feeling inspired, grateful, and hungry to attack the next challenge.”
At his promotion ceremony, Erwin reflected on his journey.
“I faced many obstacles growing up in Cuba. When I came to America and joined the Marine Corps, I continued to face many more challenges,” Erwin said. “Even my thick accent made it harder for me to be understood.
“Every challenge made me more eager to learn. Every setback made me a better Marine. Every day in this uniform reminds me why I fought to earn it,” said Erwin.
Now a seasoned recruiter, Zamoravega mentors junior recruiters and supports outreach programs for first-generation youth. He often speaks at high schools and citizenship ceremonies, reminding others that the American dream is still alive and that service is one way to reach it.
“The time you spend with the poolees will shape the foundation of their career,” Ewrin said. “I want to show them what it looks like to love what they do. They’ll take that same passion to the fleet and become the best versions of themselves for the rest of their lives.”
| Date Taken: | 07.02.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.15.2025 08:46 |
| Story ID: | 548064 |
| Location: | MIAMI, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 9 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, From Cuba to the Corps: SSgt Zamora's Meritorious Promotion, by Cpl Christopher Zincke, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
