JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Imagine your first job being the only job you have until retirement. For some, you may cringe at the thought of working in a department store or fast food restaurant for 20 plus years, but for Ampawn Templeman, Sons Quality Food first cook at the Freedom Hall dining facility here, she wouldn't change a thing.
Prior to her retirement July 29, Templeman worked at the Freedom Hall dining facility for 35 years.
"I came here from Thailand in 1972 after marrying an Airman," said Templeman. "My late husband was stationed here."
For 35 years, she came in before 4 a.m. and began working even before clocking in, said Templeman. As one of only two cooks in the dining facility, she worked very hard and did a little bit of everything.
"I love this job, Joint Base Andrews, the local area and the people," she said. "Today is a sad day."
The Freedom Hall staff celebrated Templeman's service during an internal celebration in the dining facility Friday.
"She will be missed and no one will be able to replace her," said Thomas Ford, Sons Quality Food supervisor.
Templeman says now she plans to travel. Her first stop is Texas, and she will eventually return to her home in Thailand. After she finishes her travels, she plans to finally return to the National Capital Region.