22nd Operations Group member earns spotlight performer award

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  • By Public Affairs staff
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, KAN. --  Staff Sgt. James Gumbs has served in the Air Force for six years. He has been stationed at McConnell for 18 months. His hobbies include playing guitar and brewing his own beer. He is also actively continuing his college education.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
Probably my father, because he taught me that nothing in life worth having comes easy -- you have to work for it.

What would you like to accomplish during your Air Force career?
I want to earn my Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from Kansas State University through the Airman Education and Commissioning Program. I also want to receive a commission through officer training school. I have a pretty rigorous schedule planned to complete my AECP package before the February 2011 deadline, but nothing in life worth having comes easy, right?

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
Probably the Virgin Islands because it just feels like home. My father grew up on St. Thomas, so I have a lot of family there. I love the beaches, the water skiing and the fishing. Driving on the left side of the road is a good experience too.

What is your favorite book/movie and why?
I know it is cliché, but my favorite book is "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger. I first read it when I was 15 and I remember laughing hysterically. I don't have a favorite movie. I really like "Death to Smoochy." That movie cracks me up every time.

If you have the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would want to meet retired Col. George "Bud" Day. I read his biography and he's had a fascinating life and career. Not to mention it would be interesting to shake the hand of a man who survived a "no-chute" ejection.