Airman 1st Class Russell Lowe

  • Published
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Tip of the Spear" is a weekly spotlight designed to recognize outstanding Airmen for the work they do every day at Hurlburt Field. Airman 1st Class Russell Lowe, 9th Special Operations Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment journeyman, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Russell T. Lowe

Unit: 9th Special Operations Squadron

Duty Title: Aircrew Flight Equipment journeyman

Hometown: Rockwall, Texas

Date Entered the Air Force: Jan. 5, 2010

Hobbies: Riding my motorcycle and playing sports.

Why did you join the Air Force?
I have always had a desire to serve and to get an education.

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
We perform a number of tasks and inspections directly related to the safety of our aircraft and aircrew.

If you were Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force for one day, how would you change the Air Force?
I would set up written guidelines governing how Enlisted Performance Reports' are to be written, like bullet format and determining rating for individual based on actual achievement. For example, an individual who only does their job would be rated a 3 for meeting standards. To rate a 4 or 5 would require volunteer work, community involvement, school, etc., as well as being able to perform their job at the appropriate level.

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field and Eglin Air Force Base?
The local areas and communities.

What do you like most about being an Airman?
The opportunity to travel and do things that I would not have been able to do otherwise.

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air Force?
Nothing, my recruiter answered all of my questions, so I knew what to expect.

What motivates you at work?
The fact that my job affords me the opportunity to work on a variety of programs, projects and equipment.

Who are your heroes/role models?
My supervisors and upper level leadership.

Advice to others?
Respect others, you never know when you will need their help.

Why was he selected?
"Airman Lowe was recently selected as the 9th SOS Airman of the Quarter for his outstanding work ethic and duty performance. Since arriving at the squadron in June 2010, Airman Lowe has excelled in his job as an AFE journeyman for nine MC-130P Combat Shadow aircraft and 112 aircrew. In this capacity, he is responsible for inspecting and maintaining life support and survival equipment worth $3.5 million. Whether assisting fellow Airmen as a volunteer driver for Airmen Against Drunk Driving, participating in community fundraising/improvement projects to help others less fortunate, or tackling the AFE section's most difficult tasks, Airman Lowe's energy and 'can do' enthusiasm set him apart from the crowd. He is an exceptional young Airman and truly deserving of this recognition!"

-- Lt. Col. Kurt Konopatzke, 9th SOS commander