22nd MDG member earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Abigail Klein
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Tech. Sgt. Mary Nelson, 22nd Aeromedical Squadron Optometry Clinic NCO in charge, has been in the Air Force for 12 years. She has been stationed at McConnell for almost three years. During her off duty time, Sergeant Nelson spends time with her husband, Jose Polance and her daughter, Aydia Marie.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
There are a few military members who have helped shape my career and guide me professionally, but the most positive influence in my life is my older sister, Susan. Her influence prepared me for success, far before I enlisted, allowing me to achieve the goals I set forth. She instilled in me what it means to be hard working and honest, and she held me to those standards growing up; for her, I am forever grateful.

What would you like to accomplish during your Air Force career?
Ultimately, I would like to make a difference. Without sounding cliché, it is so important for me to know that I did something valuable with my time and the time of everyone with whom I work. If even one person can say that I affected them in some positive way, then I would feel accomplished. I would also like to help bring up the newest generation of Airmen in a way that preserves our culture and continues to reflect our unique force.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place I have traveled is the British Isles. It wasn't fancy, tropical or booming with tourists, but to walk the same streets that my great grandfather had walked, gave me a sense of home like nothing else.

What is your favorite book/ movie and why?
My favorite book is anything by Suze Orman, the financial advice guru. Her books not only give great money advice, but they also have a bit of psychology background to understanding our behaviors. My favorite movie is "Back to the Future." I think it's my favorite because it reminds me of childhood and gives me that nostalgic feeling every time I watch it; also it's fun!

If you have the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
 I would like to meet my maternal grandmother. I never had any grandparents growing up. I see how my mother is with my daughter and it is so wonderful. I know I would have really enjoyed getting to know her and hearing stories about my mother as a child.