Airman Spotlight: SSgt Paul R. Cummings Published Nov. 7, 2011 By Staff Reports 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Name: Paul R. Cummings Unit: 51st Medical Operations Squadron Job Title: Surgical Technician Job Description and its impact on the mission: As a Surgical Service Specialist, my primary role is to assist surgeons during operations. My responsibilities range from sterilizing instruments to helping with anesthesia; we are integral in making sure every surgery goes smoothly and successfully. Time in the military: 5 years 8 months Time at Osan: 6 months DEROS: May 2012 Hometown: Beverly, MA Hobbies: All crafts from drawing to woodwork, all sports from wakeboarding to mountain biking, and other hobbies such as gardening and even sewing. Why did you join the military? My father and great grandfather were both in the Air Force and I wanted to follow in their footsteps. The Air Force has done a lot for me, and in return I want to do the best that I can in support of my service. Where do you see yourself in 10 to 20 years? Hopefully, I'll be retired after a great career in the Air Force, both my wife and I will have our degrees, and my little girl and any future children will be off to college. I also plan to buy some land on which to build a ranch. What do you do for fun here? I love to swim and I enjoy teaching others how to swim. I plan to become a fully certified swim instructor and would like to add scuba diving to my list of hobbies. Hopefully, as I PCS to other bases I can share my experience and expertise in these areas, not only with base personnel, but my children. What is the best part of being at Osan? All it has to offer and the support that comes with it. The day I finished my CDC's (Career Development Courses), I wanted to start college. However, I was afraid to start school again, but with encouragement from my co-workers I pressed forward. Within the past 6 months I started courses for my CCAF and my swimming certification; well on my way to accomplishing my long term goals. What is the most memorable moment of your tour here, so far? Anytime I hear the A-10s and F-16s take off is a memorable occasion. This is my first assignment to a fighter base and it really reminds me of why I'm serving in the Air Force and what I'm really supporting. What's your favorite Air Force memory or story? My favorite memory in the Air Force was when I returned from deployment. It was great to see my wife, who was pregnant with our daughter at the time. Together we were able to find our first home and settle in as a family. What accomplishment are you most proud of? Making Staff Sergeant has been the greatest accomplishment next to having my family. I was anxiously waiting on the results, but what a relief it was to know that I made it and could continue to support my growing family while continuing to follow in my father's and grandfather's footsteps. Who are your role models? My father is a great role model. He is my best friend and supporter. He provides guidance, but understands that I'm my own person as well as a husband and father, and knows that I can make my own decisions.