Captain Shanti Sethi (Retd.) is a trailblazer in the United States Navy, making history as the first American of Indian descent to command a guided missile destroyer, the USS Decatur. From her early days growing up as the only Indian in upstate New York to her remarkable journey through the ranks of the military, Captain Sethi’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and dedication to service. In an exclusive interview with India Currents, Captain Sethi shared her experiences, insights, and thoughts on the evolving landscape of women in the armed forces.
### A Childhood Dream to a Sea-Faring Reality
Captain Sethi’s interest in the military was sparked at a young age, influenced by her family’s brief military history and her move to the Bay Area in her middle school years. As the only Indian person in upstate New York, Sethi’s relocation to an area where she saw people who looked like her made a profound impact on her sense of belonging and identity. Her journey into the military began with enrollment in the ROTC at age 13 and participation in the Civil Air Patrol, setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to service.
### From Army Aspirations to Naval Achievements
Initially drawn to the Army, Sethi’s experience in a blizzard during training in Vermont led her to switch to the Navy, where her passion for the ocean found a home. She honed her leadership skills at military college and navigated a career path that saw her become a navigator on the USS Hopper, an ammunition carrier, and eventually, the commander of the USS Decatur. Her role in Operation Iraqi Freedom and subsequent command at sea showcased her expertise and dedication to the Navy’s mission.
### Advocacy for Inclusion and Diversity in the Armed Forces
Throughout her career, Captain Sethi has been a vocal advocate for greater representation of women and minorities in the military. Her experiences as a woman of Indian origin in a predominantly male-dominated field have fueled her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. From her command of Task Force 64 to her time at the White House working on national security policy, Captain Sethi has been a trailblazer in breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.
As she reflects on her journey from the Navy to her current role as a leadership coach in Washington DC, Captain Sethi’s message to aspiring young service members is one of encouragement and empowerment. She emphasizes the importance of embracing diversity, overcoming challenges, and making a difference through service to the country. With her daughter Priya by her side, Captain Sethi embodies the spirit of resilience, determination, and balance that defines her remarkable career.
In a world where the future of the military is evolving, Captain Sethi’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of leaders, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse armed forces. As she continues to advocate for the rights of all service members, regardless of background or identity, Captain Sethi’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose in the pursuit of excellence.
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