344th boom operator selected spotlight performer Published April 22, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse 22nd ARW Public Affairs MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Airman 1st Class Dustin Confer 344th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator Airman Confer is from St. Francis, Kan., and has been in the Air Force for one year and four months. He has served at McConnell for six months. When he's not at work, he enjoys performing automotive body repair work, air brushing, designing tattoos, jet-skiing and spending time with friends and family. What do you enjoy most about McConnell? The people are the greatest at McConnell. There is always someone congratulating other Airmen for an accomplishment and many times this may be the first encounter with that individual. It just encompasses the value of the Air Force Family. Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? I see serving in the military a true honor in itself. The pride and experience you get out of it is irreplaceable. What would you like to accomplish during your Air Force career? I want to make the best out of what comes my way and enjoy my career to the fullest. Who is the most positive influence in your life and why? I would have to say my parents are my most positive influence. My father taught me what I know now about automotive repair and art, while my mother was the one that always held out a hand for anyone that needed it. Both taught me about manners, respect toward others and the importance of making the right decisions. What would you be most proud to tell your parents? Taking the step from civilian to Airman was important to me. There is a large sense of pride putting on the uniform and knowing the things you do throughout the day is for a good reason. What would you like to tell someone who is considering joining the Air Force? If it is something you are interested in, it is a great career to get into. Nobody can beat the sense of pride that comes along with it. You will meet people who will help no matter the situation, and you will have some great stories to tell friends when you go back home.