Senior Airman Tres Grissom

  • 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. Senior Airman Tres Grissom, 1st Special Operations Equipment Maintenance Squadron armament team member, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Senior Airman Tres Grissom

Unit: 1st Special Operations Equipment Maintenance Squadron

Duty Title: Armament Team Member

Hometown: Beaufort, S.C.

Date Entered the Air Force: July 2, 2007

Hobbies: I like hunting, fishing, music, running, going to the gym, and I especially love spending time with my wonderful wife Kate and my awesome son Carter.

Why did you join the Air Force?
I really wanted to join the Air Force when I was in high school. After graduating, I hung out for a few years and realized I wanted more than what the jobs I had were offering me. My dad, who served in both the Marines Corps and the Army, encouraged me to join the military. I did, and I haven't looked back.

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
Weapons definitely contribute to the mission: if it wasn't for them, the Air Force would be just another airline. We make things go bump in the night. When bad guys need to go away permanently, we facilitate that process expeditiously.

If you were Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for one day, how would you change the Air Force?
I would introduce a board requirement for promotions so that everything wasn't solely based on tests. Some people don't test well, while other people don't lead others well. I think the boards would help identify and separate the two.

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field?
It has to be telling people back home I work for special operations--it just sounds cool. I like being part of [Air Force Special Operations Command] since we play a huge role in a lot of places and our people know it.

What do you like most about being an Airman?
I like learning new things and meeting new people. I get to do both on almost a daily basis, so I don't get too bored. The Air Force also takes care of my family, and that is a huge plus.

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air Force?
What my job was going to be--I came in open technical!

What motivates you at work?
I love getting things done. If I don't get to finish something, I end up thinking about it all night or until I get a chance to work on it again. The impact of what we do on the mission is a big motivator. When I'm home and can hear the big boom of the cannons, I feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Who are your heroes/role models?
My parents. My mom is one of the smartest and hardworking people I know. She is amazing. My dad did things that I dream of doing one day like bodybuilding and strongman competitions in the gym, and in business. He's very inspiring. I also look up to my father-in-law, a retired Marine. He is an all-around great example of a father, service member, friend and mentor. I can't fully explain just how good of an example he is.

Advice to others?
Know your role and do what you're supposed to do. Doing these things makes life so much easier.

Why was he selected?
"Airman Grissom's dedication to the mission clearly exceeds the standard, and his exceptional work ethic is evident every day. He trained two newcomers on 65 percent of the armament shop's core tasks and identified a fleet-wide problem of 105mm hand pump tube brackets being incorrectly manufactured. He simplified the removal of the 105mm side rail assemblies, and submitted a request to simplify and correct procedures. As the lead physical training leader for the armament section, he paves the way for improved health and higher fitness scores. Airman Grissom exemplifies the Air Force's core values every day, and is a tribute to our squadron, Hurlburt Field, and the United States Air Force."
-Master Sgt. Keith Grice, 1st SOEMS First Sergeant