927th Air Refueling Wing Spotlight

  • Published
  • 927 ARW Public Affairs
MacDill Air Force Base, Fla --  This month's 927th Air Refueling Wing Spotlight focuses on two lieutenants from the 927th Aeromedical Staging Squadron who earned their commission through the Deserving Airman Commissioning Program, 1st Lt Lakisha Miller and 1st Lt Jessica Hall.

What was your enlisted career and how long were you in that career field?

Miller: I started as a Civil Engineer assistant (3E5), in 1997. I was a CE assistant for approximately 4 years then cross-trained into Aerospace Medical Assistant (4N0) in 2001. I was commissioned in 2013, as a critical care nurse.
Hall: I was a 4A071, Health Services Administration for 14 years.

What made you want to pursue an officer position? What drew you to the ASTS mission?

Miller: Before I commissioned I was the 4N Functional Manager/Nursing Superintendent. I really wanted to return to active duty and commission so I applied in 2010 or 2011 and was not chosen. One day, my commander asked me what I was going to do next. I told her that I was thinking of commissioning in the Reserve and she told me about the Deserving Airman program.
Hall: I could have been commissioned in 2002 with my bachelor's, but I did not feel I was experienced enough in the military. I decided to pursue my commission almost ten years later, after deploying and spending more time in the military and being sure I was ready to lead the way as an officer. I have been in both an ASTS and an AES prior to getting my commission and I found the deployed mission of an ASTS member gave me more opportunities to interact with patients in their transition home. Currently at the squadron I am the executive officer.

Who helped you along the way and what guidance did they provide?

Miller: My commander and Col. Steblin were great mentors for me. I always wanted to be just a military nurse, until I met these two people. Directly and indirectly, their leadership and grace has inspired me to become more than a military officer and nurse. They have inspired me to become more than I thought I could be, maybe a squadron commander or AFRC nursing leader.
Hall: Too many to name! My first supervisor SMS Nicole Ralph, former 927 ARW Command Chief Wittenburg, former superintendent SMS Lucinda Hines to name a few. They stand out because they all believed in me, even at times when my own confidence waned. They all set high expectations, which pushed me to reach my potential.

What advice would you give to an enlisted member at various points in their career?

Miller: I would not change my decision. It was definitely one of my best decisions in the military. Part of the growing process is change and moving on. I loved being enlisted, but my ultimate goal was to become an officer. I would advise them to just do it and do not wait too long thinking about it.
Hall: Airmen- soak up every experience, even those that don't seem worthy. Seek out a good mentor, and don't forget to be a mentor as well. NCO- be sure to make the switch for the right reason, whatever that is for you.

How did you put your application package together?

Miller: I was provided the checklist by TSgt Culbreath, in FSS. I went down the list and accomplished one at a time. When my package was complete, I gave it TSgt Culbreath. He looked it over, made a few corrections and turned it in. The longest process was the physical process and approval.
Hall: I consulted the FSS. They gave me the commissioning package for MSCs, which contained detailed information on the process, which varies for each career field. The process can vary for everyone based on career field, manning needs, etc. I recommend communicating regularly with the FSS to stay up to date on current requirements.

How did your enlisted career help you become the officer you are today?

Miller: I will forever use the leadership skills I gained as an enlisted member. I learned time management and organizational skills. Although the transition is a little difficult, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and experiences.
Hall: My enlisted career allowed me to gain a great respect for the enlisted force and the work they do to accomplish the mission. Also, I continue to try to help people as much as possible, even when it is "not my job".