JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
(America’s Airman is a weekly article highlighting a member of the JBA community)
Hometown?
San Ramon, California.
Why do you serve?
To continue a family tradition of service that dates back to WWII, further my education, and be a part of something greater than myself. This is a second career for me after enlisting at 36 years old. I thought it was too late for me to join but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that 39 was the new cut off for active duty service.
How does your job impact the wing’s mission?
My job impacts the wing mission and overall mission of the Air Force by getting injured or wounded Airmen back to their mission as quickly and safely as possible. In addition to being able to help those return to work, we also improve service members and their families’ quality of life. We work directly inside the physical, mental, social pillars of our world’s greatest Air Force.
What's been your favorite assignment/TDY and why?
Joint Base Andrews because it’s my first assignment. This area provides a lot of great opportunities to take in the amazing history of our country. Although, the main reason I call it my favorite is that it allowed me to meet the love of my life.
What's your dream assignment and why?
My dream assignment would be Guam because my aunt and uncle met there while they were Air Force officers. They always tell me how magical it is.
What's the coolest thing you've done in the military?
By far the coolest thing I’ve gotten to experience was being able to listen to some of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen speak at the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Their struggle to overcome racial boundaries and challenges at flight school was remarkable. It helped them raise their skill level and make them into some of the most recognized pilots in and out of combat.
What's the biggest challenge you've faced?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced has and always will be answering that little critic inside that likes to say “you can’t do that.” Joining the military at a later stage in life, I’ve had to integrate and build relationships with a younger generation – they called me “Grandpa” at basic. Learning how a younger generation thinks, operates, believes has been a huge and rewarding challenge for me.
What hobbies do you have/what do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to play/teach soccer -- my first career. I also enjoy trying new recipes and learning how to be a better cook from my girlfriend. And I’m always up for a good sci-fi film.