Airman is Proud of Her American Indian Roots

Photo By Staff Sgt. Lonnie Wiram | U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Crystal N. Ralston, assigned to the 181st Intelligence Wing services flight, poses for a portrait in observance of American Indian History Month Oct. 4, 2020 at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base, Ind. Ralston, whose parents are of American Indian heritage, is proud of her roots. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Lonnie Wiram)  

TERRE HAUTE, IN, UNITED STATES

10.06.2020

Courtesy Story

181st Intelligence Wing

HULMAN FIELD AIR NATIONAL GAURD BASE, Ind.- November is American Indian Heritage Month and for United States Air Force Tech. Sgt. Crystal N. Ralston this observance is special to her.

“Observing American Indian Heritage means to take pride in my roots so that I
can better understand and learn about my heritage,” said Ralston. “I have a son who I want to be able to teach about our ancestry, so this month is a good opportunity
to learn and reflect.”

Ralston comes from a long line of American Indian family

“My bloodline is Cherokee and Apache on my mothers side and Paiute Indian on my father's side,” said Ralston. “As Native Americans continue to remain a minority, it is important that my son understands our history.”

Ralston joined the Indiana Air National Guard in 2008 after spending 3 years in the Missouri Army National Guard.

“My interest in the Air Guard eventually lead me to request a transfer out of
the Army Guard and to Indiana where I re-enlisted with the 122nd Fighter
Wing as a services troop,” said Ralston.

After serving with the 122nd FW, Ralston transferred to the 181st Intelligence Wing, Hulman Field Air National Guard Base, Ind., where on drill weekends she serves as a dining facility manager for the 181st Force Support Squadron services flight.

“Traditionally, I am the DFAC Manager for our services flight,” said Ralston. “My full time
position is the Command Support Staff for Joint Force Headquarters supporting the Command Staff and the Assistant Adjutant General.”

While serving at JFHQ, Ralston has learned more about herself.

“The things I’ve learned about myself, the mission, and the kind of leader I want to be has been astounding,” said Ralston. “I know that I will take that experience back to the Wing and advocate for, guide, and support our upcoming Airmen.”

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Revised: Oct 14, 2020

• Date Taken: 10.06.2020
• Date Posted: 10.07.2020 20:07
• Story ID: 380317
• Location: TERRE HAUTE, IN, US