ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Team Andrews members deployed in support of the worldwide mission are making a difference in countless ways in their corners of the world.
One such servicemember is Airman 1st Class Eric J. Barrera, 455th Expedition-ary Civil Engineer Squadron security escort, Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.
Though Airman Barrera works at Andrews as a 316th Force Support Squadron customer service representative, in his deployment to BAF, he has the opportunity to work as a security escort.
"My main job is to ensure third country nationals, local nationals and contractor personnel are properly escorted while on BAF," said Airman Barrera. "We help minimize the possibility of potential informants collecting vital information about BAF and possible attacks within BAF. We also ensure the safety and accountability of all TCNs, LNs and contractors that are assigned to the security escort program mission."
"I think what interests me the most is that every military service -- including coalition forces -- can accomplish work missions together and effectively."
Roughly halfway through his deployment, Airman Barrera has already learned important lessons that have had a positive impact on him personally and on his military career.
"Communicating with people from different cultures and religious backgrounds has changed me as an Airman," said Airman Barrera. "I have to learn how to communicate with them on different levels when all else fails, I mean either hand signals, drawing, or, if available, translation. Also sharing a tent with 30 other Airmen has made me much more adaptable to different environments and people."
The deployed Airman also has military in his blood. Born at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, he is the son of a Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer and grandson to two retired Air Force Airmen. "My dad is still serving in the Navy and has for 26 years," said
Airman Barrera. "My mother is a government employee at the Bureau of Navy Personnel and my brother is currently a student at the University of Memphis Tenn., but will be joining the Air Force via the Delayed Enlistment Program this year."
Airman Barrera has been able to communicate with his family during his deployment, something that he says has been key to ease the stresses of being away from his family.
"The Air Force does an incredible job of providing a number of resources to maintain communications with my family and friends through the use of internet, morale calls, instant messaging and other means," he said. "These resources have helped to maintain morale and esprit de corps amongst the Airmen and helps my family and fellow Airmen back home to maintain a peace of mind."
Growing up as a military brat, Airman Barrera got to see his share of the country. "I grew up in many places: Maine, Florida, Virginia, Mississippi, Texas, and Tennessee -- to name a few. However, I call Memphis, Tenn., home."
The Tennessee boy has discovered important life lessons throughout his deployment, "Some of the lessons I have learned here in Bagram is to never let your guard down when it comes to supporting this mission or obstacles in life because you never know what can happen at any time," said Airman Barrera. "It makes you a stronger person."
This deployment also taught him one more of life's lessons, "Don't take small things for granted," he said.