My AF Reserve PA mentor that I worked for as a Army medic on the Joint Task Force - Operation Jumpstart Border Mission. I was his designated medical technician at the Navy Air Facility - El Centro, CA. at the time and he encouraged me to become a PA although my studies were focused on becoming a PT. He would challenge me to learn how to do procedures and exams on my own and would quiz me on medical topics that he taught me in the clinic. He always followed through to make sure I was taken care of both at work and outside of work . He followed up on me throughout the years to make sure I was moving forward on my career path. He would always tell me his cool medical stories and experiences with traveling overseas, humanitarian missions, and how being a PA would afford me similar opportunities. It was after this assignment that I changed my career focus from PT to PA. I have him to thank for motivating me, inspiring me, and for all of the help he provided me along the way through mentorship. He retired as a Colonel and Commander at Moffeit AFB, CA. I remember always telling him that I wanted to be like him when I grew up and now I have had all the opportunities that he mentioned. I am on my way to Lt Col, currently a Flight Commander, I have traveled the world, and most importantly I am a PA today and I enjoy what I do!