Erica Class
2017
Erica Class, who was born and raised in Stamford, graduated from Westhill High School in 2007. That fall she enrolled at Norwalk Community College, while working part time. Over the next few years, Erica considered the military and the opportunities it offered, both for her career and education, and joined the Marines in 2010.
After completing boot camp at Paris Island, S.C., Erica remembers proudly becoming a Marine on September 11, 2010. She had completed the Crucible –one of the most challenging programs recruits face –and received her Eagle, Globe and Anchor, the official emblem and insignia of the Marine Corps. Following boot camp, Erica completed weapons training at Camp Geiger, N.C. and then went on to Military Occupational Specialty School in Fort Lee, Va., to train as a food service specialist. She deployed in February 2011 to Okinawa, Japan, where she was stationed at Camp Hansen. While serving there she received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, awarded to junior officers and enlisted personnel to recognize outstanding meritorious service or achievement.
On February 2013, Erica was transferred to Camp Pendleton, Calif., and received her honorable discharge in June 2014. Erica returned home to Connecticut, where she is completing her last semester at Norwalk Community College, graduating this spring with her associate’s degree in general studies. She plans to continue her education to receive her bachelor’s degree over the next few years.
Erica’s fiancé, Alex, is actively serving in the Connecticut Air National Guard stationed in Orange. Erica and Alex have a daughter, Selena, who is three years old.