Recruiting duty for the sharp, committed

  • Published
  • By Dan Galindo
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  Air Force Reserve Command never stops its search for quality people to join the Air Force team, and part of that effort includes attracting motivated Airmen to serve as Reserve Recruiters.

Every Airman is a recruiter in his or her own way. However, representing the Air Force Reserve in uniform, sharing incredible experiences, describing the places you've been and the skills you've learned can be part of a full-time pursuit that will shape the Air Force directly.

"There is a great deal of responsibility that comes along with the title of 'Recruiter'," said Tech. Sgt. Travis Newkirk, who has been a Reserve Recruiter for five years. "We represent the Air Force Reserve to the public."

AFRC Recruiting Service does expect high standards of its people, but it also offers tangible incentives for recruiters' efforts.

Not only do they receive basic pay and benefits, they get special-duty assignment pay, an expense account and a supplemental clothing allowance, in addition to the annual clothing allowance. It's like getting paid a grade higher than what is on one's sleeve.

While there are perks that come along with any special-duty position, personal satisfaction is high on the list of benefits for Homestead's local recruiters.

"It's a unique opportunity to share one's own successes, knowledge and experiences while making a difference in people's lives," said Senior Master Sgt. Alex Vazquez, senior recruiter for the 482nd Fighter Wing.

Sergeant Vazquez has been making that difference for 17 years, both overseas in Italy and at six locations across the U.S. And, he's the person a prospective recruiter needs to meet to get the process started.

Before a reservist meets with Sergeant Vazquez, he or she must some basic requirements. In addition to other requirements, a reservist must:

- Be a Senior Airman and completed Airman Leadership School
- Have served at least one year in the Air Force Reserve
- Have no more than 16 years on active-duty
- Have high moral standards
- Be physically fit and have a passing Fitness Test score

If Sergeant Vazquez gives you the "go" after an initial interview, you'll attend a week-long selection course at Warner Robins A.F.B., Ga., for the final approval. Once selected, you'll spend six intense weeks at Reserve Recruiting School at Lackland A.F.B., T.X.

From there, a reservist will serve four-year tours on active-duty status with all the benefits.

That rigorous selection process and training has a purpose.

"How we deal with our applicants and how we wear the uniform and conduct ourselves reflects directly on the Air Force Reserve in the eyes of the general public," Sergeant Newkirk said. "Therefore, any prospective recruiter needs to be sharp, committed to excellence and of strong character."

If you know you have what it takes, contact Senior Master Sgt. Alex Vazquez at (305) 224-7360.