Then Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville recognizes Staff Sgt. Mohamed Kaba as one of the top recruiters in the Army during a ceremony at the Pentagon Hall of Heroes Feb. 4, 2019. Kaba is one of more than 9,000 recruiters around the world who helped the U.S. Army hire more than 80,000 individuals for full-time and part-time careers in the active Army and Army Reserve in 2018.
Then Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. James McConville recognizes Staff Sgt. Mohamed Kaba as one of the top recruiters in the Army during a ceremony at the Pentagon Hall of Heroes Feb. 4, 2019.

Kaba is one of more than 9,000 recruiters around the world who helped the U.S. Army hire more than 80,000 individuals for full-time and part-time careers in the active Army and Army Reserve in 2018. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Lara Poirrier) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT KNOX, Ky. — Born in West Africa and raised in France, one recruiting noncommissioned officer who originally enlisted as a Green Card holder makes it his personal mission to share Army opportunities with individuals starting their life in the United States in the same way he did.

Sgt. 1st Class Mohamed Kaba immigrated to the United States in 2006 as a lawful permanent resident in search of opportunities.

“I joined the Army because it was something I always wanted to do and I liked everything they had to offer,” Kaba said.

After graduating basic combat training, Kaba was granted U.S. citizenship and continued his career in the Army. Now, as a recruiting NCO, Kaba represents the Army and helps others follow in his footsteps, a source of great pride for his family and hometown community.

“When I go home, I feel like a hero. When people see me, when kids see me, they want to be like me, they identify themselves with me, it impresses other people,” Kaba said. “I represent something very valuable to them and I must hold myself to a standard.”

Supporting Green Card holders and helping them join the Army is personal for Kaba — it allows him to extend the same opportunities the Army has granted him to others.

“Everything I ask for, the Army gives back to me. I serve this country and I am grateful for that,” Kaba said. “I love this job and I’m grateful for everything that I do. Every single day I feel special because every day I impact a life.”

Since joining the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Kaba has helped over 100 people find their place within the U.S. Army and receive the same benefits and opportunities he has received.

Lawful permanent residents are eligible to enlist in the U.S. Army provided they meet all pre-qualifications, and they have at least six months remaining on their Green Card prior to shipping to basic training. Interested individuals should reach out to their local recruiting station or visit GoArmy.com