Ask any military member how we came to serve and you will be told a story. Without a doubt, our anecdotes will begin by remembering our childhood. We'll share how we grew up, important influences, and maybe even a couple of key events that helped us in our future calling. We will continue by sharing some "war stories" from when we joined and may also describe how what we do contributes to the mission. While each story may have similar elements, all are unique and this one is mine. Like many service members, my story begins with my family. Born and raised in Rochester, New York, I had little to do with the military as a child. Although my parents' families shared a rich tradition of military service that included my father's eight years of service in the United States Marine Corps before I was born; I have had absolutely no exposure beyond these links. In fact, even now, I could hardly relate anyone to much of their military career beyond the branch of service, job, and major conflicts in which they served. However, the spirit of their service permeated every aspect of my life growing up. My father's time in the Marines was well spent as he raised us with a fierce devotion to discipline, standards and respect. He instilled in us a sense of duty with an inherent expectation to help out around the house, maintain good grades, stay physically fit, and participate in extracurricular activities. He has chosen to stay involved in our activities through coaching, Cub and Boy Scout leadership, or simply by participating. My mother, an experienced teacher, was the primary homemaker and equally supportive. My parents' sense of service influenced me greatly and led me into coaching, youth mentoring programs, and school service organizations. The most involved... middle of paper... fly, keep our networks active and fuel the jets on the runway. Finally, we provide a comprehensive fitness mission that can sustain our forces while keeping them in fighting shape. Each of these mission sets represents basic needs both at home and in a deployed environment. Indirectly our services impact the maintenance of Air Force families, as is commonly understood "as we recruit the member, we support the family." From childcare, youth programs, bowling alleys or golf courses; our job is to help the military family feel welcome and cared for while their loved one selflessly serves their country. I am proud of my service; I am incredibly appreciative of the experiences I have had since joining the Air Force and truly feel that what I do makes a difference. Not having known exactly what I would do when I grew up, I honestly can't think of anything else I'd rather do.