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A Rock Solid Warrior: Staff Sgt. Kenneth Soto

  • Published
  • By Public Affairs staff
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  This week's Rock Solid Warrior is Staff Sgt. Kenneth Soto. Soto is an installation patrolman with the the 387th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron. The Louisville, Ky. native is deployed from the 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air National Guard.

In his own words:

Q: What is your family's military heritage?
A:  My mother is a retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. My father also served four years active duty and left service as a Staff Sgt. Also my Grandfather was a Captain in the U.S. Navy.

Q: What is your mission here?
A:  The basic mission is to provide base and airport security at our deployed location.

Q: What are some of the best parts of your mission?
A:  I have the honor of having top notch leadership in my unit and excellent working conditions.

Q: What are some of the challenges you face while conducting your mission, and how do you overcome them?
A:  Driving conditions to and from work can be pretty hazardous.  Also, working with "other country nationals" and being cautious to not cause an international incident.

Q: How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base?
A:  In deployed environments, more attention can be paid to the job. There are not the normal distractions of family and friends.

Q:  How many times have you deployed?
A:  This is my first deployment.

Q:  What makes this deployment unique?
A:  I am using the majority of my paycheck to fund a drum kit I've always wanted.

Q:  Why did you join the Air Force?
A:  Originally, I joined because it seemed like a better option than college and my mother had a good career so the Air Force has always been in the family. I am staying and re-enlisting because I love my job and I love the people I work with. No amount of money can buy quality co-workers. The decision to join was also because it was an opportunity to better myself more than I would in any other career field.

(The Rock Solid Warrior is a weekly spotlight focused on an outstanding member of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. These unsung heroes have been nominated by their unit leadership to be recognized for their efforts while deployed.)