Iceman in Action: Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Morin

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Cassandra Whitman
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Rank and Name: Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Morin

Duty Title: Noncommissioned officer in charge of air terminal operations, 354th Logistics Readiness Squadron

Hometown: Oakley, Kansas

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? Over the time I have been in, my views of the Air Force have changed drastically. I came in with the notion to just pay for my schooling. It wasn't until I went through Airman Leadership School that the light bulb came on about what the Air Force was really about and what I wanted from it. I have gained valuable insight into the diversity of the Air Force and how even when we are different, we still get the job done.  The biggest importance of the Air Force would have to be the Airmen. I have gained so many friends and know they would help me out in a moment's notice. The Air Force has grown to be a big part of who I am and who I always want to strive to be.

What moment or accomplishment as a member of the Iceman Team are you most proud of and why? I think the biggest accomplishment I am most proud of is the collective effort to move some highly sensitive cargo out of the state of Alaska. It's not normal operations for us to move such high value items. Working with multiple agencies across the Air Force to make that mission run smoothly was also a highlight. They all brought the whole operation together and made it run very smooth. My team really showed me what they were capable of and how flexible they can be. It was a shining moment that I think all of us will remember.

What is your favorite part of your job? Our job is unique here at Eielson. Since we assist the base in building up their cargo for deployments, we miss out on the normal operations of an air transportation specialist (ATS). If I were to encompass all that we do as an ATS, I think the best part of my job would be loading and tying down cargo in an aircraft. Having to crawl under vehicles and throw chains around is exciting and also a great workout. Also, driving some of the bigger vehicles to load aircraft is a blast. After all the loading and tying down of cargo is done, seeing the aircraft take off to its next location is always a plus.

Who inspires you and why? There are many people who inspire me and it really depends on the situation.  If I have an Airman who is struggling with fitness, they inspire me to help them out and not only try and make them better but also motivate me to see if I'm struggling in that area.  On another spectrum, if I see someone who isn't afraid to correct and hold individuals accountable, regardless of rank, that inspires me. There are younger generation Airmen and older generation Airmen who inspire me on a daily basis. It just depends on the situation.

What's your favorite part about being in Alaska? I think the best part about being in Alaska is the wildlife I get to see. I still get excited about seeing a mama moose and her baby walking around. When you get to see other species, it's so exhilarating because not too many people can say they were within 25 yards of a bear or moose. Also, having nature in your backyard is always a thrill.  There is so much to do and so much to see. Being able to get out and do all those things is fun.  Going out and chasing auroras is a highlight of Alaska. Stepping out your back door and looking up to see the sky light up because of phenomenon's of the universe is amazing.