Master Sgt. Clint Grizzell

  • 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. Master Sgt. Clint Grizzell, 6th Special Operations Squadron operations superintendent and combat aviation advisor, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Master Sgt. Clint Grizzell

Unit: 6th Special Operations Squadron

Duty Title: Operations superintendent and combat aviation advisor

Hometown: Independence, Ky.

Date Entered the Air Force: March 25, 1992

Hobbies: Entertaining my children, traveling with family, supporting local charities and military associations, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and muscle cars.

Why did you join the Air Force?
My father was an Air Force member during the Vietnam War. He encouraged me to serve my country and experience the world. I joined to honor his wishes and have enjoyed every moment. 

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
I am a combat aviation advisor and have the privilege of training partner-nation aircrew on meeting their national security objectives. Members of my unit make a global impact on a daily basis by instructing other countries on how to protect and defend themselves in 32 different Air Force Specialty Code-related specialties. 

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field?
Although our Air Force is an all-volunteer service, the Air Force Special Operations Command only takes the best of those volunteers. That's what makes us unique and specialized from the rest of the Air Force. Our Airmen are motivated to always go above and beyond regardless of the situation.

What do you like most about being an Airman?
Carrying on the proud traditions that our past veterans have either given their lives for or who have accomplished what "couldn't be done."

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air Force?
To take advantage of all the places you go and see. There's more to going TDY than just work. Get out and visit folks in the local community and share in their culture. 

What motivates you at work?
I'm motivated by knowing how important Aviation Foreign Internal Defense and building partner-nation relationships are. Also by knowing that we make a difference every day to people who support the same goals as we do in the War on Terrorism.

Who are your heroes/role models?
First and foremost, my father.  He passed away when I was 26 years old, but I still serve in his honor. Also all the veterans that continue to support our military and mission. Get out in the local area and involve yourself with the hundreds of veterans who live among us in the Fort Walton Beach/Navarre area.

Advice to others?
Challenge yourself on a daily basis. Never become stagnant in your position or duties. If you're not doing something that is rewarding to you, find something that is.

Why was he selected?
"Sergeant Grizzell is our operations superintendent and a model senior NCO serving as a mentor and role model for our combat aviation advisors. His positive attitude is contagious, serving as a catalyst which inspires others to be well-rounded Airmen focused on our mission, families and community."
-Lt. Col. Thomas Geiser, 6th SOS director of operations