Airman of the Week: 1st Lt. Dustin Ash

  • Published
  • 436th Airlift Wing
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  

Name/rank: 1st Lt. Dustin Ash

Squadron: 9th Airlift Squadron

Job description: C-5 pilot and executive officer

Dream assignment and why: I've got it. Flying the biggest, heaviest airlifter all over the world has been my dream job since day one in the Air Force. A close second would be a distinguished visitor flying assignment overseas.

Family: Lindsay, my wife of 11 years. We have two boys, Ethan and Elliot, and our first girl, Evalyn, is due in January.

Favorite movie: A toss-up between "Rudy" and "Man on Fire."

Favorite food: Seafood - boiled, baked, fried, grilled, you name it.

Favorite book: "Wild at Heart" by John Eldredge.

Who inspires you: First and foremost, my family. My wife is my rock. She has supported me in every step to get where we are. My kids keep me laughing, especially at myself. I could not do what I do without them. At work, I am inspired by many of our enlisted Airmen, especially our NCOs. They know how to make stuff happen and get work done - it truly is a pleasure to work with them.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years: 10 years ago, the AF was not even an option for my family and me. There is so much that can happen in the next 10 years, most of which I cannot control. I am very thankful to be serving here at Dover Air Force Base, Del., in the 9th AS and that is where I see myself for the next two years.

1st Lt. Ash was selected for Airman of the Week because of the example he sets for our junior company grade officers and enlisted Airmen. Our squadron has greatly benefited from his diligent work ethic and leadership style, and he models an excellent working relationship with our senior NCOs and officers. Despite being a junior officer, he carries himself in a fashion much more senior to his time in service. He leads my front office team daily as one my executive officers, and sets a high standard for our squadron's administrative work. He was handpicked as the only lieutenant from our squadron to participate in the upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection because of his competency, dedication, professionalism and attention to detail. I am proud to nominate this outstanding officer for Airman of the Week.
- Lt. Col. Craig Harmon, commander of the 9th Airlift Squadron