Core of My Life
by Melissa S
I’ll have to combine the two scenarios, for you see, my entire life has been centered around the Air Force. I was born into the Air Force family, to a proud Senior Airman father and my new to the military lifestyle mother. We lived on and off base and it seemed that no matter where we went the other military families were the ones that accepted us the most. Because of this, I eventually got involved with the on-base activities for all the kids and it made it easier for me and others when our parents were deployed because someone understood what we were going through and how to make it easier. This beginning scenario is what committed me to the AF lifestyle. I loved it and I loved the people. So in 2000, I joined myself. I did 5 years Active Duty and 3 years Inactive Reserve. This was quite possibly the best years of my life. The AF challenged me and introduced me to all different walks of life and types of people. I made friends with so many people whom I keep in touch with to this day. It even introduced me to my husband who is also Active Duty and allowed me to start a family in a safe and secure environment. We are blessed to have such great coverage and security from our AF family. I could go on and on about all the good we’ve done through the AF and how many people have touched our lives or vice versa but the truth is this, being a part of the AF family humbles me. It shows me that a large group of strangers can become one cohesive unit and stick together no matter what. It’s more than a commitment; it’s a way of life.