MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
Airman 1st Class Franklin Bonam, 22nd Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground equipment apprentice, received the spotlight performer for the week of Jan. 23-27.
Bonam supports the flightline by delivering, maintaining and repairing AGE. He performs periodic, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on 430 pieces of support equipment.
“Bonam has proven to be a vital member of the Aerospace Ground Equipment Flight,” said Master Sgt. Michael Applegate, AGE flight chief. “He’s very methodical in the performance of his duties and has the perseverance and endurance to knock out whatever task is handed to him. I can rest easy at night knowing that he’s the face of AGE when he’s out on the line.”
Bonam, a Chattanooga, Tennessee, native, joined the Air Force in February 2016 and arrived at McConnell in September 2016. His hobbies include soccer, reading, playing games, hanging out with friends and any outdoor activity.
Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My father is my most positive influence. He grew up deaf and worked hard to show that it would not hinder him from accomplishing what he wanted to do. He continuously teaches himself. Everyone, deaf and hearing, young and old, who talks about my father to me speaks fondly of him. I’ve always seen him as inspiration to be a better man and a better human.
If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
My advice to new Airmen would be to keep a positive attitude, have a direction in life and always try to keep someone close to you. The best way to do all these things is to keep an open mind.
What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
My goal that I will not stop trying to achieve is to become a larger and better influence on those I meet throughout my career and my life.
Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I have not traveled much in my life, but I would say Chicago, Illinois was the most interesting place. The sky-high mall, the food, and the entertainment available there made it an astonishing experience.
If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
It would a great pleasure to meet Morgan Freeman. He is an exemplary role model, and I would enjoy holding a conversation with him.