A day in the life of a new Airman

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrea F. Liechti
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Compared to basic training and technical school, the operational side of the Air Force is a totally new experience for Airmen reporting to Barksdale for their first duty station.

Airman Rebecca Hernandez, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, is one of many new Airmen here. She arrived on base Aug. 20 and is enjoying the Air Force lifestyle thus far, she said.

"During basic and tech school, we were watched carefully to make sure we didn't misbehave," said Hernandez. "It's nice to have earned trust in order to safely enjoy the freedoms we've been given."

Some of the "freedoms" for Airmen here include no curfews, decorating and individualizing their dorm rooms, and exploring the base and local areas as often as they wish.

Airman 1st Class Ja'Aria Manibusan, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron flight service center, has already explored the surrounding cities in her short time here.

"Barksdale is a great first base for me," Manibusan said. "I've already found tons of cool stuff to do in my free time. I can participate in water sports, zip lining, and I plan to check out 'Gators and Friends' so that I can hold a baby alligator."

New Airmen have many options if they keep their minds open, Manibusan added. Getting together with friends and venturing out to explore the area are great ideas for Airmen during their free time.

When they are not enjoying free time, new Airmen here are receiving the training necessary to help support the mission at Barksdale.

They receive briefings about the Air Force, Barksdale and the surrounding areas during nine days of classes at the First Term Airmen Center. The briefers vary from financial advisors and local police officers to information assurance representatives, all of whom help the Airmen become acclimated to their new environment.

After FTAC training, which included beating the first sergeants at volleyball through a forfeit on Sept. 28, the new Airmen are eager to get back to their shops.

"I've only been there three weeks, but I already love my job," said Hernandez. "My co-workers are extremely helpful, and I'm learning a lot every single day."