Staff Sgt. Amanda Schilliger-Kelly

  • 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. Staff Sgt. Amanda Schilliger-Kelly, 623rd Air Operations Center-Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Amanda D. Schilliger-Kelly

Unit: 623rd Air Operations Center/Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Division

Duty Title: ISR Operations 

Hometown: Orting, Wash. 

Date Entered the Air Force: Aug. 29, 2000 

Hobbies: Hiking, kayaking, camping, scuba-diving, travelling and learning to sew.

Why did you join the Air Force?
I joined the military for many reasons: job skills/training, travelling, school benefits and for the overall experience. I've been interested in joining the military since I was little.

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
We provide critical command and control for special operations forces globally. I build, track and manage intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and provide daily updates to Air Force Special Operations Command leadership, providing situational awareness of special operations and support globally.

If you were Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for one day, how would you change the Air Force?
Well, I know their job isn't easy, and a lot goes into making decisions. I do agree with wearing a uniform for group physical training, but I don't like our current PT uniform. It's loud, the shorts ride up your legs when you do anything and it's not comfortable to workout in.

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field?
I don't care much for the area, but I like supporting the special operations missions. I've enjoyed what I have been a part of both times I've been stationed here. The beaches are OK, and I do like the diving in the area. But I wish there were mountains closer to here. If Hurlburt Field was moved closer to the mountains, I would have no complaints.

What do you like most about being an Airman?
I enjoy almost everything about being an Airman. Most of all the camaraderie, though you may not always see it. I've met people I would have never met had I not joined.

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air Force?
I had a really good recruiter who told me everything. I knew what to ask prior to coming in by some friends who already served in the military.  I would check in with my recruiter every week while I was in the delayed entry program.  He always answered my questions and made sure I came in prepared. 

What motivates you at work?
Trying to do the best that I can do and making my family proud of me. I do like to listen to music and have quotes to look at when the day gets rough.  I can either look at the words or listen for a moment and everything just seems to get better.

Who are your heroes/role models?
I have a lot of role models and heroes that have helped me throughout my life, but the two individuals that I have always looked up to are my grandparents, Robert and Gladys Crosier. 

Advice to others?
Life is short and it can change in a moment, so live it to the fullest. Enjoy it to the best of your ability and also be proactive in managing your career and life. No one will look after you better than you.

Why was she selected?
"Sergeant Schilliger-Kelly's leadership and duty performance leads the 623 AOC/ISR division. She maintains vigilant watch over 24/7 ISR operations for the 23rd Air Force and briefs the AFSOC commander weekly on special operations processing, exploitation and global dissemination management. She is a quiet professional who leads by example and exemplifies the Air Force's core values."
-Col. Ronald Wiegand, 623rd AOC commander