22nd MSG Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
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.

Senior Airman Marvina Walker, 22nd Mission Support Group knowledge operations manager, was selected as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of June 24 to 29.

Walker joined the Air Force in January 2011 and arrived at McConnell in May that year. In her off-duty time, she enjoys exercising, reading, eating and volunteering.

Walker's position as a knowledge operations manager makes her responsible for tracking and processing the group's decorations and correspondences.

Before being assigned to the 22nd MSG staff, Walker worked in the 22nd Communications Squadron as the assistant base publications manager.

Walker managed more than 150 base instructions and Air Force instruction supplements during her tenure in the 22nd CS. During this time, she also filled a position that would normally have a technical sergeant in the 22nd Operations Group processing decorations and evaluations when the group was under-manned.

"She has continuously demonstrated exceptional character and distinguished herself as an outstanding leader and role model," said Senior Master Sgt. Vegas Clark, 22nd MSG superintendent. "Airman Walker is the embodiment of 'Service Before Self.' She proved this by stepping-up and providing upgrade training to seven Airmen in need of accomplishing 121 tasks."

Her dedication and work ethic led to many accomplishments that eventually earned her a promotion to senior Airman below-the-zone.

Walker is also the current secretary for the McConnell AFB Airman's Council. She helped raise more than $1000 for charities after Hurricane Sandy in this capacity.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
The most positive influence in my life is my grandmother. She taught me that it is imperative to think and be positive. You will never encounter my grandmother without receiving a smile and kind words. I have learned that optimism is key in every situation.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
I would tell new Airmen to not let the experiences of others become their own experiences. It seems that new Airmen who come into the Air Force or to McConnell are sometimes bombarded with conversations that highlight the negative aspects of others' careers and encounters. I think it's essential for newcomers to give themselves time, to engage in their own careers, and interact in the areas surrounding McConnell AFB themselves and then make their own conclusions.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
My ultimate goal is to enjoy a nice, long Air Force career and retire at a relatively young age.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
My first trip abroad was very interesting. Off-duty, I visited Munich, Germany and London, England and enjoyed the cultural differences of both cities.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I have been intrigued by Maya Angelou since high school. I have read several of her autobiographies and she has influenced so many with her poetry and presence. She overcame a difficult childhood and, thus far, she has lived her life with such verve and that is something I try to do each day.