Meet Patricia Dominguez

Patricia is the program assistant for the Fort Sill National Cemetery near Lawton, OK. Her work includes planning the budget, making the daily schedule for burial services, and making sure people who request burial at the cemetery are eligible, but she spends most of her time coordinating burial services and working with veterans and their families.

Pat likes her job because she enjoys reaching out to veterans and their families. She also helps with outreach programs to educate veterans about their right to burial in a national cemetery. She says many veterans do not realize that they, their husband or wife, and their children can be buried at no cost in a national cemetery. Pat helps families coordinate funeral services as well. The veteran's families appreciate the care and kindness of the cemetery staff in a difficult time.

Pat also helps with special events at the cemetery. Memorial Day and Veteran's Day are occasions for celebration. High school students in band, choir, and ROTC join with veterans and the community to remember and honor those who have gone.

CareerCheck

Patricia chose this career because she enjoys working with people, especially veterans. She appreciates the chance to comfort families, form bonds with them, and build relationships with people over time. She recommends this career to anyone who likes working with and helping people. The best advice for someone considering this career is to get a good education in math, English, writing, and communication, and develop good people skills.