22nd ARW Public Affairs Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman 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.

Staff Sgt. Rachel Waller, 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs command information NCO in charge, was selected to be the spotlight performer the week of Aug. 23 - 29.

As the command information NCOIC, Waller is responsible for ensuring the telling of the Air Force story through print, photo and video mediums and manages an office of seven Airmen.

"She constantly puts the Airmen first and works tirelessly to improve their communication skills while preparing them for the next level," said Ashley Wright, 22nd ARW Public Affairs chief. "She has been spot on in making sure our team is equipped, trained and able executing the mission. She truly embraces the NCO creed and the value of excellence in all we do."

Waller joined the Air Force in November 2008 and has been at McConnell since January, 2015. The Aurora, Colorado native enjoys reading, cooking and spending time with her husband and two children in her off time.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My family is the most positive influence in my life because I want them to be proud of me and I want to set an example for my children and younger family members that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why? 
My advice is to take care of yourself and your career. No one cares more about you then yourself. You are the expert, take charge and make your career something you are proud of.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career? 
One goal I would like to accomplish is to finish my degree.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place I've been to is Bujumbura, Burundi, where I was forward deployed to. Every day was a new experience, and meeting the local military is something I will never forget. A solider told me that although his family and fellow countrymen don't support the military, he was proud to serve and protect them because in his heart he knew it was the right thing to do. I've never been more humbled before, and would love to go back someday.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why? 
Honestly, there isn't anyone I would want to meet but if a time machine was invented, I would like to meet my past self and offer some advice to me to help out in the future.