Airman 1st Class Veronica Branson

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  • 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 Veronica Branson, 1st Special Operations Medical Support Squadron medical logistics journeyman, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Airman 1st Class Veronica Branson

Unit: 1st Special Operations Medical Support Squadron

Duty Title: Medical logistics journeyman 

Hometown: Palmer, Alaska

Date Entered the Air Force: Feb. 17, 2009 

Hobbies: Singing, running, football, kayaking and camping.

Why did you join the Air Force?
I joined the Air Force because the world is a lot bigger than my hometown, and I wanted to see it. The Air Force gave me the chance to meet some amazing people and see some beautiful places, too. 

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
Medical logistics Airmen fuel medical supplies and equipment not only to our clinic here, but also during deployments and natural disasters. Medical supplies are needed all over the world, and we are here to supply them any time, any place.

If you were Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for one day, how would you change the Air Force?
I would be more hands-on. I would go out and meet people, see exactly what is going on at different bases and with different career fields. I'd listen to the thoughts, concerns and suggestions of all Airmen, both in the enlisted core and officers. I would want to be more involved with the public, too.

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field?
I absolutely love the sunshine. The wildlife is amazing as well. 

What do you like most about being an Airman?
I love the learning process and the new things you get to experience at a good pace. As an airman, you learn responsibility at a slower pace, so it's not overwhelming and you learn how to lead the right way.

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air Force?
I would loved to have known more about what to expect during Basic Military Training. It took me a while to get into the swing of things, because I was not used to the discipline that the Air Force establishes in you. 

What motivates you at work?
My co-workers! Everyone in my shop holds each other to a high standard, and  the rewards are given only when they are deserved. We're like a family, and it makes you want to work harder when the people you work with support you. 

Who are your heroes/role models?
My grandparents, hands down. They taught me compassion and motivation to do good for the world and the people in it. They are the most selfless people I know and would do anything to help someone out. I look up to them with the most respect.

Advice to others?
Work hard and be good to others. You never know who's watching. Do good because you want to, not because it would look good on an Enlisted Performance Report. And take full advantage of what the Air Force offers you, because the memories will be priceless when you look back on them.

Why was she selected?
"Airman Branson has a can-do attitude, no matter the task. She accomplishes everything with a smile on her face and goes above and beyond. She lives by the Air Force's core values and leads by example both on- and off-duty."
-Senior Master Sgt. James Britt, 1st SOMDSS superintendent