Veteran Story: Erin Rust

Erin Rust is a Law Enforcement Ranger at Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida.

NPS Photo

After separating from the military I struggled to find purpose. It wasn't until I saw a job opening for a Park Ranger at the Dry Tortugas that I even knew that this was an option. I knew nothing about the National Park Service before attending the Seasonal Law Enforcement Academy. I knew nothing about Florida before accepting a winter seasonal position at Everglades, but I fell head over heels in love with the Florida Keys and Florida Bay.

In July, I visited the Dry Tortugas for the first time. This place is indescribable. There is an immense contrast between the incredibly delicate coral ecosystem and the monumental Fort Jefferson. It is baffling that this enormous masonry structure was constructed adjacent to the beginning of the Great Florida Reef nearly 70 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. I love watching as visitors experience this magnificent and unique park for the very first time.

I also love that I get to protect such an awesome place. To know that my work as a Law Enforcement Park Ranger has a direct and positive impact on the park's resources is greatly fulfilling. I get to protect my country, and its people. But this time, I get to serve here at home instead of overseas. Working at Dry Tortugas National Park and living in Key West feels like home."