Master Sergeant Sara E. Hunter: A Reflection
I recall the morning my parents left me at the recruiter's office like it was yesterday. Tears flowed as I watched them depart, fear and excitement filling me.
Basic training flew by; the most life-changing event, other than graduating, was joining the Air Force Honor Guard. Soon, I was at Bolling AFB, D.C., donning the iconic blues.
At the Honor Guard campus, I was clueless about what lay ahead. Afton Thornton, my tech school roommate, became a lifelong friend. We were more than colleagues; we were family. When my dad passed in 2007, my Honor Guard family supported me. Assigned to Tyndall AFB, FL, as a Health Services Management Technician, I faced unexpected challenges.
Meeting Daniel, we married two years later. Then, with two weeks' notice, I deployed to Afghanistan. Camp Bastion left a lasting impact.
In 2012, we moved to England, where David and Gracelyn were born. In 2016, Montana became home, offering cherished memories despite the bitter winters. Eglin AFB, FL, welcomed us in 2019, marking our final Father's Day with my late father-in-law. Kuwait followed, providing insight into mental and physical health.
Grateful for the journey, I thank everyone who supported me, especially Daniel and my mom.
Remember:
- Be kind
- Care for one another
- Speak up professionally
- Be persistent, it gets things done
