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Rock Solid Warrior: Staff Sgt. Estella McElveen

  • Published
  • By 1stLt. Sarah Ruckriegle
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  This week's Rock Solid Warrior is Staff Sgt. Estella McElveen. She is a communications focal point technician with the 633rd Expeditionary Communications Squadron. The Kingstree, S.C. native is deployed from the 633rd Communications Squadron, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.

Q: What is your family’s military heritage (anyone else in your family who was/is in the military?):
A: I am the only person in my immediate family who is in the military.

Q: What is your mission here (in general terms)?
A: At the communications focal point, I’m the liaison between the customers and the back shops. I provide on-the-spot resolutions for customers.

Q: What are some of the best parts of your mission?
A: The best part of working communications focal point is interacting with all the other units on base. By providing them the support they need, I’m enabling them to complete any and all missions; everyone needs communications. They may not think so, but as soon as their computer, telephone, radio, etc., doesn’t work they realize how much we are needed.

Q: What are some of the challenges you face while conducting your mission, and how do you overcome them?
A: The most challenging part of working at the communications focal point is trying to remain positive throughout the 12-hour shift. When the customers call or walk-in they are not happy because something is wrong. I know that I’m here to assist; I ensure the customers that we will get their issue resolved in a timely manner, so they can complete their mission, and I do it with a smile.

Q: How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base?
A: Here I work at the communications focal point. At home station I work asset management where I am responsible for ensuring that all accountable computer equipment, radios and software are accounted for. I also assist units with purchasing all accountable assets for the largest account in Air Combat Command.

Q: How many times have you deployed?
A: I have deployed three times.

Q: What makes this deployment unique?
A: There is nothing really unique about this deployment, but I’m very grateful that I have a good working relationship with my co-workers. I’m proud to say that the communications squadron has helped every unit complete their missions.

Q: Why did you join the Air Force?
A: I joined the Air Force to have the opportunity to travel. So far I’ve had the pleasure of being stationed in Germany, Korea (twice), Florida, and Virginia (twice).