Celebrating Women of Osan, Part III

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachel Casas and Airman 1st Class Dominic Salcido
  • 51st Fighter Wing
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  In recognition of Women's History Month, the WHM committee is highlighting women who embody the month's theme of "Celebrating Women of Character, Courage and Commitment." This is part three in a series of four of inspirational women on Osan Air Base.

Name: Chief Master Sgt. Tamar Dennis

Unit: 51st Security Forces Squadron

Job title: Security Forces Manager

Job description and its impact on the overall mission: Oversees PACAF's largest Security Forces combat unit and advises the Defense Force Commander on all matters of personnel management, training, and organization resource allocation.

Time in the military: 19.5 Years

Time at Osan: 11 months

Hometown: Montego Bay, Jamaica & Miami, Florida

Hobbies: Spending time at home with my dogs

Why did you join the military? Initially, I joined the military for the benefits; the plan was 4 years and separate, however the plans quickly changed. Every assignment was a new experience and a new opportunity to learn about myself, my purpose and my potential. I did not realize it at the time, but the experiences were ordained to prepare me for each new assignment, opportunity and Airman I would meet.

What accomplishment are you most proud of? I am extremely proud to be an Airman, but most proud of being a Defender Chief.

Who are your role models? There are so many amazing folks who paved the way and exhibited traits that I emulate today. However, my Mother has remarkable strength, she is an overcomer. She demonstrates each and every day the measure of hard work, diligence and putting God first.

What drove you to continue your career in the military? As I previously stated, my intentions were 4-years and done. However, with each position I encountered amazing Airmen who made it easy to continue. I found my purpose in each assignment. My joy comes truly from service and people, the Air Force afforded me the opportunity to do both. The decision was easy!

What advice do you have for other women coming into the services? First order of business is to know yourself and your purpose. Often, we are not sure of who we are, and are constantly changing to fit a mold, a perception or others' viewpoint. I encourage each and every woman serving to serve with confidence, humility and grace. Be excited about what you bring to the fight, be comfortable with who you are. Diversity is just that, we are encouraged to embrace the difference and use it as an advantage.

If you could start over from the point which you joined the military, would you do it all over again or choose something different? Nope, I would not do anything differently! There is a purpose behind every experience...good or bad. Remember life is a journey, not a race. There are ups and downs on every pathway. You appreciate the valley, because of the hills you previously climbed.