Robert Paul Cherberg wants to remind us about the value of determination.

A Red Cliff Tribal Member, Robert graduated from the University of Missouri St. Louis's Optometry program in 1999. He joined the US Public Health Service and remained active within the Public Health Commission Corps, but faced difficulties working his way up in rank through the Corps structure. He applied for the position of Captain and was rejected. He applied again, and was rejected again. This continued for five attempts.

"But the fifth time was a success", he said. "Perserverance does pay off."

He is now the Deputy Director at the Menominee Indian Tribal Clinic in Keshena, WI and an active duty officer with the US Public Health Commission Corps. In his role as Captain, he covers from the Fox Valley to the Bemidji Area specializing in assising Indian Health Services organizations.

Kelly Chelberg, his wife, holds a doctorate in Education which took her three years to complete. Robert and Kelly live in Shawno, where Kelly teaches at the College of Menominee Nation.

Gii-minochige, Robert and Kelly!