Why I serve

Photo By Master Sgt. Chris Botzum | Maj. Nicole Reigelman comments on the positive impact of deployment on Veterans Day 2017. Editorial  

HORSHAM, PA, UNITED STATES

11.11.2017

Courtesy Story

111th Attack Wing

by Maj. Nicole Reigelman, 111th Attack Wing, Public Affairs Officer

Last week, I returned from a six month deployment with the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing at Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

As a member of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard for 15 years, I had never before been called to serve as part of wartime operations. While I was anxious about deploying, I was proud to join generations of Americans who have answered our nation's call.

My six months deployed were among the most rewarding of my life, reinforcing the reasons I love to serve.

First, as a public affairs officer, I was able to view firsthand the professionalism and dedication of my fellow airmen as they fulfilled their piece of the mission every day.

I saw the tremendous coordination and teamwork it takes to prepare aircraft for extended sorties. I experienced the precision of air refueling missions over Syria from the back of a KC-10 Extender.

I met the team responsible for maintaining the wing's thousands of air conditioning units, without which when temperatures routinely surpass 120 degrees, aircraft sensors can't be maintained, pilots can't get adequate crew rest and the mission falters.

These professionals are part of a proud, but shrinking, community in the U.S. of those who choose to serve.

While service members across the branches have varied experiences, service is a brotherhood nonetheless, and one that I was blessed to renew my membership.

My deployment also exposed me to a culture unlike what I've seen on previous overseas trips.

The UAE was a great location to experience Middle Eastern tradition, from the delicious cuisine to the serene playing of the call to prayer. The Emiratis were gracious hosts to the thousands of U.S. personnel living in their country.

Finally, my deployment challenged me in new ways. Like countless others, I overcame the inevitable discomfort of separation from friends, family and daily routines.

At times, watching tragedies unfold at home from thousands of miles away - from a devastating hurricane season to the mass shooting in Las Vegas - intensified that discomfort.

But overall, I learned more about the Air Force core missions than I imagined possible, grew professionally by managing a team of talented Airmen and eventually thrived in a role in which I was initially uncertain.

Being a member of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard has presented me with unequaled opportunity to contribute to a larger mission, while being able to grow personally and professionally.

This Veterans Day I'm prouder than ever to wear the uniform and serve alongside the professionals committed to service.

• Date Taken: 11.11.2017
• Date Posted: 11.12.2017 10:38
• Story ID: 255015
• Location: HORSHAM, PA, US