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Danny Punimata: Fulfilling a dream
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Posted on May 17 2004
Since a little kid, Danny Punimata had his mind set on becoming a police officer.
All grown up, Punimata was working for two years already at Price Costco in Hawaii when he decided to come to Saipan in 1997 to pursue his dream and enter the Police Academy.
“My dream came true, so I’m going to live it to the fullest,” he said. “It’s in my nature to help others. It deals with the way I was brought up, and I take pride in the job.”
Though faced with many challenges and dangers, Punimata acknowledged the satisfaction he feels in becoming an enforcer of the law.
“I love the job. It is challenging because we meet new people in various types of situations, but I think of the job first. The danger part is the last thing on my mind.”
Punimata said discipline is the key and vital element needed to be successful in the job—a trait that is particularly needed because of the people that he has to deal with.
“It’s all about discipline. You learn it in the academy and with it, you’ll be well prepared for the different street scenarios. We’re dealing with people, so we have to show respect to get respect. I put myself in their shoes and approach them in a respectful manner.”
Punimata, who is currently serving in the Department of Public Safety Traffic Section, is also busy with volunteer work for the community. He is a coach in the Saipan Youth Football League.
“I enjoy working with the youth,” he said. “We have to teach the younger generation. They are the ones who will grow and run the island.”
He said having a job that keeps the street safe makes him “feel good because of the safety it provides for the kids.”
“A person lives off stuff like that. Saving a life is the ultimate high. It can’t get better than that.”
Punimata has also served in the Patrol Section, Bureau of Motor Vehicle, and the DEA prior to his stint in Traffic.
He expressed his desire to remain in the CNMI, calling the place “home.”
“I am grateful to be here. This is my home and I am proud to be a CNMI citizen. I would like to thank my fellow officers for being there for me and my daughter on Rota.”
