Women's History Month: An Airman's perspective

Photo By Master Sgt. Evelyn Chavez | Senior Airman Samantha Clark has served in the U.S. Air Force for two and a half years. The total population of female Airmen is 58,785 or 19.1 percent. This is an Airman’s perspective on what it means to be a woman in the military. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Evelyn Chavez/Released)  

AVIANO AIR BASE, ITALY

03.11.2016

Story by Senior Airman Areca Wilson and Staff Sgt. Evelyn Chavez

31st Fighter Wing

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Senior Airman Samantha Clark has served in the U.S. Air Force for two and a half years. The total population of female Airmen is 58,785 or 19.1 percent. This is an Airman's perspective on what it means to be a woman in the military.

Why did you decide to join the military?

I was 23 when I joined and I wanted to be in maintenance. I liked working with my hands and with a variety of people and [I thought] maintenance would be a good place to be. I like that the military is very challenging and thought it would be a good stepping stone.

What is your role in the military?

I am a non-destructive inspection journeyman. We perform preventative maintenance. We essentially find what is broken and send it to the appropriate agency for repair. We find equipment discrepancies, sort of like doctors of the maintenance world.

What does being a woman in the military mean to you?

It's amazing because there is no one else like us and we are unique. I wake up with pride every day when I see how much women have done for us -- and the men who support us too. I love the sisterhood the military provides because it helps give us the validation that, although we choose a different path, we are still doing something right. I think I've actually learned to love myself [more] being in the military, and because of that I can give others what they deserve because I appreciate who I am.
How do you think women have paved the way for you?

It takes a lot of guts to stand up for what you think you deserve. All the women that come before us and even now, who are still trying to make a difference, have helped people see inequality. They made a difference and we are here because of them. We will continue to pave the way for each other.

Do you have any advice for young women hoping to join the military?

The military gives you confidence. It gives you goals and the skills to achieve them. It is not about your looks; we are valued by what we can contribute. You're going to be a lot stronger because of it. Find someone that you can talk to for advice and don't be afraid to talk to other women; we are here to help each other.

• Date Taken: 03.11.2016
• Date Posted: 04.29.2016 04:51
• Story ID: 196842
• Location: AVIANO AIR BASE, IT