At the very heart of AEO is our PEOPLE. Our associates are REAL. They’re authentic, resilient, and optimistic – each with their own story. In honor of Veterans Day, we’re proud to spotlight our associates who served in the armed forces. We’re thankful for their service!
Meet Fernando, U.S. Army!
I’ve worked at American Eagle (AE) for the past nine years. I’m currently the Store Team Leader at Miromar Outlets, and I’m an Army Automated Logistical Specialist.
Throughout my adolescent years, I was part of the Civil Air Patrol, an organization committed to develop youth into responsible citizens. Joining the Army wasn’t a surprise for me, it was about time. Being a part of something bigger and feeling like I’m contributing to something great, an opportunity to improve myself and push past my limits.
Without a doubt, my proudest moment in the military will always be boot camp graduation day. 12 weeks of intense training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. The next day I went from being a recruit to a United States Army soldier.
My experience in the military reinforced my skills to lead by example, as well as with direction, delegation, motivation and inspiration. Every day I correlate the stockroom operations and procedures at AE with my experience working the warehouse operations in the Army.
I’m thankful to AEO – a company that cares about their people and communities – for giving me the opportunity to inspire others and pursue my dreams. I’m part of something real!
I’d like to share a quote that I will always remember from my boot camp Drill Sergeant:
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” – John Quincy Adams
