Lanae Lang is a young military officer who shares her journey of embracing unexpected changes and finding fulfillment in her career.
Lanae initially resisted moving to Colorado for her military assignment, but she ultimately grew to love it. However, the transition wasn't easy, as her move came after the end of a relationship, leaving her lonely and disconnected from friends and family.
Determined to build a new social circle, Lanae leveraged social media and joined a running club to meet new people, showcasing her innate ability to connect with others. She acknowledges the challenges of balancing passions while serving, noting the varying demands of different military assignments.
Lanae reflects on her Vietnamese heritage and upbringing in Springfield, Illinois, emphasizing the roles her family and church played as positive influences. Instilled with a sense of pride from her grandfathers' Air Force service, she was introduced to the ROTC program by a cousin, which set her on her military path. She recounts being grounded and mentored by an amazing leader, receiving constructive feedback from peers, and learning to advocate for herself.
In addition, Lanae discusses her admiration for the character Jeremiah Fisher from "The Summer I Turned Pretty," her certification as a lifeguard, and her views on handling online hate by focusing on advice from respected sources. A touching story about her grandfather attending her officer commissioning ceremony highlights the pride and bond within her family.
Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin
More Amazing Stories:
Episode 28: Purple Heart Recipient CMSgt Ben Seekell – Your Capacity is Limitless
Episode 31: Todd Henry – Choose To Be Brave
Episode 35: Brook Cupps – Shaping Leaders On and Off The Court
Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure
00:00 - Intro
05:13 - Overseas experience that made her thankful for life
06:36 - Vietnamese background and growing up in Illinois bubble.
14:34 - Reflecting on life through ancestry for inspiration
23:32 - Making friends in new location was challenging
31:31 - Netflix crush letter
33:02 - Fight Walkout Song
34:18 - Baywatch Character
37:54 - Embrace fear and pursue opportunities with courage