"I was 25 years old and living in Charleston, S.C. I was working two jobs to try to make ends meet. I had nothing to show for it, except my car. So, everyday, I drive past this recruiters office and one day, I just decided to go in and talk to one of the recruiters, just to see what the Air Force had to offer. I took the ASVAB and passed it the first time! I then went to MEPS and then off to basic, after enlisting in July of 1994. I patiently waited until December of 1994 for a guaranteed job, which turned out to be dental assisting", Kristin tells us.
So began her now, nearly 14 year career with the United States Air Force. The Air Force has made me a more stronger and confident person. When she joined she had several goals in mind. One- getting an education. Two, the ability to see the world and travel. Both of which she has been able to accomplish. With a planned 6 years left to go before retirement, she still has new goals she intends to achieve.
"I love the fact that no matter who you are: man, woman, rich, poor that you can make something of yourself. You are in total control of your destiny and there is nobody to hold you back, but yourself. Also, everytime I go to a new base, I get to meet new and interesting people. As a result of this, I now have friends all over the world", adds Kristin.
Kristin has been stationed in North Dakota two times. Germany, Texas, and Ohio. While in Texas, she actually was a dental assistant instructor. She has managed to do this while raising a son, Mathew, and a daughter, Clair. But had it not been for the strong support of a loving and dedicated husband, Rob, this would have been more difficult. (She met husband Rob, while on her first assignment, stationed in North Dakota. Where Rob also was listed in the Air Force) This loving support from her husband aided her in getting through a 4 months assignment to Iraq. Her assignment in Iraq was as an Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Tech. She was able to travel with her Oral Surgeon, the same one she is assigned with in Ohio. They did facial trauma cases on anyone who had trauma to the face, head, or neck.
What Kristin has learned the most is, "I have learned how to depend on myself. That I am a strong person. I know that I am dedicated to my career, job, self, and family."
For being a strong woman, patriot and serving your country, Kristin, we salute you and Thank You........
Recent Comments