I Love My Community: Cecil Rockett

Veteran Cecil W. Rockett, Jr., security supervisor with Lincoln Properties, Inc., talked recently with HERLIFE Magazine about his service to country and community.

HLM: How long have you lived in Stockton, and what do you love most about it?
CR: I moved to Stockton in 1985 with my mother, when she was transferred to work for the Social Security Administration. The diversity of the city and the meaningful friendships I have been able to create are reasons why I love it here.

HLM: Tell us about your time in the military.
CR: I served in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve from May 1986 to April 2013. I was an air cargo craftsman stationed at Travis AFB. I worked at various other military bases around the world, including the continental USA, Europe, the Pacific Rim and the Middle East.

HLM: What key event has the most impact on your life?
CR: 9/11 was a day I will never forget. A year later my squadron was activated to go to Iraq and Afghanistan. Over the years I had tours in Iraq, Qatar and Afghanistan.

HLM: You have been head of security at Lincoln Center in Stockton for many years. What do you love the most about your job?
CR: During my time at Lincoln Center, I have been blessed with long-standing friendships and many that I consider family.

HLM: Where do you currently serve the community.
CR: I support the USO through donations and by attending SJ County Sheriff’s Foundation events.

HLM: What types of activities do you enjoy outside of work?
CR: I’ve been learning the art of songwriting, working on my 10,000 hours and surrounding myself with like-minded creatives.

HLM: Do you have a bucket list?
CR: Yes! I would like to skydive, hear one of my songs on the radio and backpack across Europe.

HLM: What accomplishments are you most proud of?
CR: I am so proud of the young woman my daughter Jordin has become.

HLM: What is your favorite pro sports team and will they be winning this year?
CR: My favorite college team is the Air Force Falcons. My pro team is Las Vegas Raiders. Will they win? Well, your answer is as good as mine.

HLM: What’s your favorite quote?
CR: “Empty your mind. Be formless, shapeless like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now water can flow, or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” ~Bruce Lee.

HLM: What is your favorite food?
CR: Pasta, and yes, I love to cook! I make a delicious Hungarian goulash.