Red Tails Spotlight: Tech. Sgt. Lucinda Windham

Published March 27, 2018
By Staff Sgt. Joshua Edwards
407th Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Tech. Sgt. Lucinda Windham, 407th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron non-appropriated funds custodian, is the newest Red Tails spotlight, a series highlighting Airmen of the 407th Air Expeditionary Group.

Public Affairs: Why did you decide to join the Air Force and why do you continue to serve?

Windham: I was introduced to the Air National Guard by a colleague in 1999. At the time, he and I were working at a printing company in Martinsburg, Pennsylvania, and I was struggling with my professional satisfaction. He often shared his experiences as a pilot and encouraged me to think about joining the guard. Being young and inexperienced in the world, I found this to be an exciting opportunity. One day my friend made me an “honorary member” of the 193rd Air National Guard, which sealed the deal … I swore in not long after in 2000.

What is one of your proudest achievements in your military career?

I am grateful and happy for any achievements, which may be tied to me. I try to do the best I can, making contributions in any way possible. I believe the best decision I made was to change my career from the communications squadron, which I served for 13 years, to the one where I am now, in services. Services really is where my heart is, due to my talents and abilities and where I believe I have been able to make the most impact.

What is your contribution to the 332nd AEW mission?

I work in EFSS as the NAF custodian. I have been able to develop new methods of accounting and streamline tracking mechanisms to account for the budget for the entire rotation. I've also reached out to our MWR and NAF resale areas and trained all members on the system that we currently use. In addition, I analyze the sales and profit we make for all NAF resale operations to determine the total revenue to ensure it is within a desired range. I have also been requested to work with the head Executive Chef at 6 Pazzi to develop a new menu line; moving forward with the goal and intent of generating and boosting sales. The new menu items will showcase healthier choices with an Italian twist; such as, grass fed bison, salmon, snapper and whole fresh vegetables. The success of 6 Pazzi is important because we see a return on investments from their sales, which goes directly into the morale and welfare funds for our troops. The more revenue we generate, the more outstanding special events, activities and programs we can offer. Finally, as a registered dietitian, I believe I am in a unique position to provide input for improved healthy menu options.

Is there a leader, from your career or personal life, who influenced you? If so, who, and how did they affect the way you’ve approached your Air Force career?

My dad is my hero. There are no words to describe the love he poured out to everyone he met. He was loved by all who knew him and you can search the world over and find not one person who could say an unkind word about him. I fall short every day, but I seek to be a little bit like the hardworking, humble, meek and loving person he was. I recently lost my dad to a long, terrible cancer and I miss him terribly.

Airmen often face a significant challenge or watershed moment early on in their careers that influence their formation as leaders. Did you have any moments like these that helped shape you into the Airman you are today?

I do not recall having any one challenge that shaped my leadership abilities, rather it’s the accumulation of various experiences and hardships that shaped where I am today.

What values and ethics are the most important to you?

Honesty, integrity and humbleness.

What are some of your goals for the future?

I would like to be a role model to a young Airman. I have personal goals of earning a master’s degree in the near future, but more importantly, I would like to touch someone’s life in a positive way.

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