CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Senior Airman Quinton Valentine is a member of the 437th Maintenance Squadron and has been stationed at Charleston AFB for three years.
While currently deployed to the Middle East, he is assigned to the 8th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
In his deployed unit, Airman Valentine is C-17 crew chief, performing tasks such as changing tires, replacing brakes and troubleshooting unknown problems.
"We work as a team here to make sure that planes can make each mission on time," he said. "If we don't put any effort into what we do then there is a possibility of someone downrange losing their life."
While at Charleston AFB, Airman Valentine performs duties as a C-17 crew chief as well.
Airman Valentine said he contributes to Team Charleston's mission both on- and off-duty, whether it is volunteering for Airmen Against Drunk Driving, or by simply setting an example in abiding by Air Force standards.
"I always give 100 percent effort when I work, and when I work my hardest that makes everyone around me want to work harder and get the mission done," he said.
He said he also enjoys participating in volunteer opportunities around Charleston, such as taking on a position as an assistant track coach at R.B. Stall High School.
"During the beginning of the year, the kids had never high jumped before. So, I took time after work to stop by and teach the kids techniques and forms. One kid made it to the state competition after only high jumping for one year," he said.
According to Airman Valentine, what he likes best about his job is being able to meet new and interesting people.
"This job is definitely a challenge and makes you think outside of the box," he said. "Even while deployed, it is great because I actually feel like I am making a huge difference with getting these planes out of here on time, so they can take supplies down range."
Airman Valentine's future career goal is to become an officer. He plans to pursue a commission by finishing his college degree and applying for Officer Training School. He is also considering joining a Reserve Officers' Training Corps detachment at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Va., commonly known as Virginia Tech.
This "warrior of the week" hails from the small town of South Hill, Va. He enlisted in the Air Force three years ago and has recently received his line number for the rank of staff sergeant.
He said he joined the Air Force to make a difference in his life and the lives of others.
"It is an honor to serve this country and a great career opportunity," he said. "Talking to younger kids and telling them what I do in the military makes me feel like I can change a person's life. I plan on retiring from the Air Force one day and hopefully start my own business."