Headline Fairchild's Finest Senior Airman Erica Mann

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sean Campbell
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Rank/Name: Senior Airman Erica Mann

Unit of assignment: 92nd Air Refueling Squadron

Duty title: KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator

Hometown and State: Navarre, Florida

What do you do on a daily basis at Fairchild AFB?
Since crewmembers don't fly every day of the week, I'm also assigned jobs within the squadron. I'm the squadron Historian, Defense Travel System Approving Official, and I assist with individuals' Government Travel Cards. I also help in-process new Airmen.

What do you enjoy about your Job?
I love being part of a crew! It's a rewarding experience and flying is what makes me happy! That feeling of excitement when you take off never gets old.

Why did you choose to serve in the military? 
I was the first one in my family to join the military. I wanted to make a difference and do something that was selfless. It's ended up being the best decision of my life. I love everything about the military and it's brought a whole new family into my life.

Time in military: Three years

What goals do you want to achieve or meet while at Fairchild AFB?  
I would like to become an Instructor Boom (Operator) and eventually take some time to do a special duty assignment. Right now my biggest focus is to continue deploying, build hours in the aircraft, and help out downrange.

What are your hobbies?
Basketball, swimming, and spending time with my son.

What is your best habit?
A positive attitude, I always find the good out of the bad. I think a smile goes along way. You never know who you're going to run into and that smile or positive outlook could be the thing that makes their day.

What are your Favorite movies?
The Fast and Furious series.

Who is your favorite mentor and what did you learn from him/her?
Chief Master Sgt. Alvin Kuper. He was my instructor through technical school. Not only did he shape me into the Boom (Operator) that I've become, but he also helped me to become a better Airman.

If you could spend one hour with any person, who would it be and why? 
The Wright Brothers. I would love to talk to them about how they got into aviation, what was going on in their minds when building their first aircraft, and what it was like to finally get off the ground. They truly made a difference in this world, and aviation has come a long way. If only they knew how big their invention paid off. Now there are people like me, in the back of a KC-135 Stratotanker, refueling planes including F-15 Eagles and C-17 Globemaster 3s to fight for freedom, as well as millions of people flying every day to get to another destination on the airlines.  Aviation is the coolest job, and the Wright Brothers had a huge impact on it.