2nd Medical Group NCO trades stripes for bars

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Luke Hill
  • 2nd Bomb Wing
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Staff Sgt. Brandon Longstreet, 2nd Medical Group public health technician, was commissioned into the Medical Service Corps as a first lieutenant during a commissioning ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Aug. 14.

The MSC provides leadership, operational and administrative support and administers the provision of medical assistance to Airman and their families.

The MSC is a very competitive career field and few Airmen are awarded the opportunity to be commissioned.

"The MSC has a very stringent selection process, and you really have to prove why you want to be a part of it," said Longstreet. "I had to try out for the MSC twice because it's so competitive."

Throughout the rigorous selection process, Longstreet had to write several essays and go through face-to-face interviews only to be turned down the first time he applied. However, Longstreet is very passionate about MSC and his determination became his greatest ally throughout his journey.

"As soon as I found out that I didn't make it, I put another package together," said Longstreet. "Not giving up helped me throughout the process, and I think the second time around they saw how determined I was. I think they believed in me and thought I would be able to work side by side with them."

Longstreet has adopted a philosophy of doing everything to the best of his ability and his Air Force career is proof of that.

"Longstreet has a history of being excellent in all that he has done, and his peers have said he is a critical team member for the mission," said Lt. Col. Michael Hamilton, 2nd Medical Support Squadron commander. "In essence, his superior performance led him to where he is today. He is now progressing to the next level with the MSC and he absolutely deserves it."