Photo By Airman 1st Class Delanie Brown | U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Wisam Al Rubaye, 492 Fighter Generation Squadron, weapons...... read more read more
Subscribe
RAF LAKENHEATH, England - For Senior Airman Wisam Al Rubaye, 492nd Fighter Generation Squadron weapons journeyman, the journey from Iraq to the United States wasn’t just about relocation, but a story of resilience, unwavering support and the power of family bonds. Now serving in the U.S. Air Force, his path reflects a deep commitment to service and gratitude for the loved ones who guided him along the way.
Born in Iraq, Al Rubaye grew up in a country embroiled in conflict. He witnessed firsthand the uncertainty which affected everyday life while also having the fear of not having the chance to grow up. Despite the difficulties, his family, particularly his parents, were a constant anchor in an unpredictable environment.
“Growing up in Iraq wasn’t ever easy,” said Al Rubaye. “No matter how hard it got, my family was right by our side providing support and trying their best to help us live as normal as we could.”
As conflict escalated during Al Rubaye’s childhood, it became clear a change was needed. Leaving Iraq would not only ensure their safety, it would also secure a hopeful future for him and his family. December 13, 2013 soon arrived, and it was time to move to the states. Everything the Al Rubaye family faced would soon be behind them.
“Something I will never forget is how my family waited for me,” said Al Rubaye. “They could have left for the states in the summer of 2013 because they all had visas, but mine was delayed. I insisted they leave without me for the time being, so they could begin their new lives, but my parents swore they wouldn’t leave unless everyone was leaving together. They waited until I got my visa in November, and we were in the states by December.”
Moving to the U.S., though a positive change, came with its hardships. The culture, along with language being so diverse across the country, presented a challenge to Al Rubaye, who only knew very little english: ‘yes’, ‘no’ and ‘what’. Finally settling after the move, Al Rubaye started looking to his future, with hopes of following after his dad, who was an interpreter for the U.S. Air Force during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Joining the Air Force came with its own set of challenges, but once again, Al Rubaye turned to his family for support. They provided encouragement when he doubted himself, and their shared values of resilience and hard work continued to be a source of strength.
“I credit them for my resilience,” said Al Rubaye. “I feel through watching my family push to come to the U.S. for a better future, it gave me a unique perspective on how to strive for things I want while doing the best I can to honor my family through serving.”
As Al Rubaye progressed in his Air Force career, his journey became a powerful testament to the immigrant experience and the critical role families play in shaping resilience. He excelled in his duties, earning Airman of the Quarter awards as well as Senior Airman Below the Zone, sewing on the rank of E-4 six months earlier than his peers. To earn these accomplishments he used the same determination that had once helped him and his family adapt to life in the U.S.
“Because of my heritage I felt prepared for the military,” said Al Rubaye. “In Iraq everything is based on discipline, hard work and responsibilities. These values prepared me for Basic Military Training. While everyone was nervous and scared, I felt it would be easy because the values used at BMT were values I already had ingrained into me.”
Today, Al Rubaye stands as an example of perseverance, rooted in the strength of family bonds. His journey from Iraq to the U.S., from a life of uncertainty to one of service and stability, is a tribute to the sacrifices made by immigrants around the world. For Al Rubaye, his service in the Air Force is more than a job; it’s a way to honor his family’s legacy and give back to the country that welcomed them.
“I wouldn’t be here without my family,” said Al Rubaye. “They gave my siblings and I a strong foundation of support and discipline, which later reflected through my service in the military. I can’t thank them enough for it.”
As Al Rubaye continues to serve with pride, he carries with him not just the skills and discipline of a U.S. Airman, but also the values, love and unwavering support of a family that guided him every step of the way.
| Date Taken: | 01.06.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.13.2025 03:43 |
| Story ID: | 488691 |
| Location: | RAF LAKENHEATH, SUFFOLK, GB |
| Web Views: | 42 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, From Iraq to the U.S.: Senior Airman Al Rubaye's journey of resilience and family, by A1C Delanie Brown, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
