Southfield Welcomes Home an Army Champion
Southfield, a city known for its vibrant community and rich history, recently celebrated one of its own. Capt. Anna Jones, a proud native and dedicated service member, is making waves in the Army while embodying the spirit of leadership and commitment. Just a few weeks ago, Capt. Jones received the prestigious General Douglas MacArthur Award for Exceptional Leadership, recognizing her remarkable performance and unwavering values of duty, honor, and country.
From Corporate to Combat Boots
Almost a decade ago, Jones made a significant life change, trading her corporate marketing career for a path filled with purpose. Starting her journey at Southfield Christian School and later graduating from Southfield High School, she felt a calling to serve that was deeply rooted in her upbringing—her father being a veteran played a big role in that. “I’ve always been drawn to service,” she expressed. After pursuing a double major in political science and Arabic at the University of Notre Dame, Jones jumped into the corporate world, climbing the ladder with a Fortune 50 company.
However, a lingering desire to contribute to something bigger eventually led her to take the leap into military life. “I had to go and take the leap to join the Army, and I am so glad I did,” she told us, reflecting on how fulfilling it is to be surrounded by incredible people united by a common mission.
A Leader Among Leaders
In early September, during a ceremony honoring exemplary service members, Jones was acknowledged as one of only 28 individuals to receive the MacArthur Award. Nominated by Jim Heffelfinger, an executive officer within the armor branch, she was praised for breaking barriers as the first female career manager in her field. “She’s a rockstar,” Heffelfinger said. “It was an absolute win for us when we got her.”
Jones expressed her gratitude, saying, “I was very honored, very surprised, but very honored and blessed that the Army recognized my time during my company grade years.” This award serves as a validation of her hard work and commitment to fostering leadership within the military.
Life on Base
Currently stationed at Fort Knox in Kentucky, Jones has seen a variety of locations throughout her service, including Fort Cavazos in Texas and Fort Moore in Georgia. As she reflects on her journey, she remarks, “The best part of being stationed Down South is the warm weather, but I miss my Michigan seasons.” With a longing for apple-picking in Michigan’s orchards, she values those small joys of home.
In her role at the Army Human Resources Command, she manages vital aspects of soldier careers, from assignments to promotions. “It’s very different than my last job, where we were training,” Jones explains. Her previous experience working with armored vehicles gave her the tactical skills needed for her current role—a variety she appreciates in her Army career.
Continuous Growth and Adventure
With nearly ten years of service under her belt, Jones emphasizes the importance of growth within the military. “The Army will challenge you, and it’ll push you to continue to get better,” she said, expressing her passion for ongoing learning. She cherishes the opportunity to travel, train, and develop her leadership skills further. Each day presents a new chance for improvement—not just for herself, but for the organization as a whole.
As Jones prepares to celebrate her accomplishments during her upcoming high school reunion, she remains a shining example of what it means to serve with honor and dedication. Her journey from Southfield, Michigan, to becoming an award-winning leader in the Army is a testament to the profound impact of commitment and service.
