Airman Spotlight: Staff Sgt. Lee Mathews

Published Oct. 21, 2014
By Staff Reports
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Name: Staff Sergeant Lee E. Mathews

Unit: 51st Civil Engineer Squadron, Fire Emergency Services Flight Job title: Crew Chief

Job description and its impact on the overall mission: Supervises a major fire apparatus with 5 personnel, protecting 582 buildings, 11K base populace, and 56 aircrafts.

Time in the military: 10 years 3 months 8 days Time at Osan: 3 months 2 days
DEROS: May 2015

Family: 2 parents 6 brothers, 3 sisters, 1 daughter Za'Mya 7 y/o, 1 son Jeremiah 2 y/o, all living Hometown: Oakland, CA
Hobbies: Traveling, sports, and staying at every Ritz Carlton

Why did you join the military? I have a family history of military service and wanted to continue the tradition. I wanted my kids to have something great to say about their father when that day.

Where do you see yourself in 10 or 20 years? Chief Master Sergeant retired, Probation Officer

What do you do for fun here? Currently, I've been to the DMZ and I plan on experiencing more of Korea, however, I have personal and professional goals that take priority at the moment.

What's your favorite Air Force memory or story? In 2005, I was on a forward deployed six-man fire team at Bagram Air Field as a 3-level and came under fire and shrapnel came within an inch from hitting our P-19's nitrogen cylinder. We were able to make it back to base with no casualties.

What accomplishment are you most proud of? The day I enlisted into the Air Force, I lost 90 lbs. to do so.

Who are your role models? My Auntie Debra and Uncle Jeff, Osan AB, SMSgt Clark