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What’s your purpose?

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ashley L. Gardner
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing/Public Affairs

It’s 5:10 a.m., and this Airman woke up to take charge of the day. His future stares back at him as he propels himself forward, in the direction of his dream. His goal…to make a difference.

He is Senior Airman Orain Edwards, and he exemplifies what it means to be a well-rounded Airman.

Born and raised in Clarendon, Jamiaca, Edwards worked with the United States Agency for International Development to help create business opportunities for women, people of color, and LGBTQ communities.

“I managed a grant with the USAID, promoting supplier diversity among companies globally,” said Senior Airman Orain Edwards, 379th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle maintainer.

He worked to advise companies to buy their products from businesses owned by women and other underrepresented groups.

In 2016, Edwards wanted to do something different. So, at the age of 28, he joined the U.S. Air Force.

As a vehicle maintainer for the 379th ELRS at Al Udeid Air Base, he strives to be the best.

“Airman Edwards is an extremely hard worker,” said Master Sgt. Russell Achee, 379th ELRS section chief. “He has a lot of experience and a huge impact in mentoring others about life and education.”

He spends day and night striving to be his best self. He wakes up and works out, spends hours on homework, working towards his doctoral degree in Global Security, and tutors fellow Airmen. He does all this, every day, before going to work at 2:00 p.m. While at work, he focuses on all he can do to support the Air Force mission. He continues to sharpen his skills and learn as much as he can about his job and the Air Force.

One of his goals is to commission, and with his Doctoral Degree in Global Security, he wants to merge the human aspect of security with the military. Focusing on a modernization and innovation efforts of technology and artificial intelligence.

“I want to leave a legacy,” states Edwards. “I want to work on programs that will enhance the mission, and take care of the Airmen. I want to explore the effectiveness and utilization of current Air Force programs and policies that target holistic development of our airman while serving and during their post military career.”

After work, he still manages to have time to talk to his family and friends; his support system.

Ever since Edwards was young, he’s supported his friends and whatever they were going through. He’s the voice for others and helps guide them on the right path. He listens, mediates and always tries to do what’s right.

“I grew up with a lot of people being there for me,” said Edwards. “I feel like it’s my duty to pave the way forward and to give back to society.”