There were many influences in my life that led me to join the Air Force. The example set by my family was the foundation of my desire to serve one of the most powerful military services in the world. My personal experiences in civil engineering allowed me to understand the importance of the mission very early on. By serving as a pilot in the Air Force rescue community, I have become someone who understands the value our country places on the life of an American service member. This essay focuses on my strong family heritage of military service and why I joined the Air Force, some of my personal experiences that are memorable since joining, and my current role in supporting the Air Force and joint mission. Growing up in a military family, I always had great pride for my country and a desire to serve in the armed forces. My maternal grandfather served in the Navy as a corpsman, making almost every landing on the Pacific beaches during World War II. It showed me how much he cared for the Marines fighting alongside him and the courage it took to be there on the battlefield. My paternal grandfather served in the military infantry during World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. During the Korean War, his platoon was taken prisoner. After several hours of capture, he led the escape and returned safely to the Allied lines. A few months later, he was shot in the head by a sniper and left for dead. Collected with other wounded on a dock, he was still able to move his arm where he grabbed the doctor by the throat and did not let go until they took him away to dress his wounds. The love for one's country and never-die mentality has always stuck with me and inspired me through my many difficult times throughout my...... middle of paper ......ck to recover isolated staff and ensure that they will do so. live is a source of pride in Air Force lifesaving. The HC-130 can also provide a means to infiltrate an objective area with pajamas via airdrop or to refuel helicopters by extending their range. All these parts are part of the rescue mission. Air Force Rescue serves all Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who find themselves in areas requiring protection, and gives me the humble satisfaction of knowing that I play a role in this effort. The reasons I chose to join the Air Force are clear, because of my love for my country and the dedication my family has shown to a life of service before self. In my short experience in the Air Force, from the civil engineering community to that of a rescue pilot, I see the importance of each Airman and how they play a role in the Air Force, but more importantly in joint operations..