22nd MDOS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier
  • 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 Christina Begeal, 22nd Medical Operations Squadron aerospace medical technician, was selected as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of Sept. 2 to 6.

She left Houston, Texas in February 2009 to join the Air Force and became a part of team McConnell in October that year.

Her workweek is broken into two parts. Monday through Wednesday she trains new Airmen and works with patients as an education and training program administrator while she spends the remaining of the week running the 22nd ARW self-aid and buddy care program and teaching CPR.

"[In August 2013] she instructed two self-aid and buddy care instructor classes with a total of 25 students and has evaluated seven instructors," said Master Sgt. Richard Rubi, 22nd Medical Service Flight chief.

Begeal enjoys staying active at the end of the workday. She enjoys cooking, watching movies, running, swimming, basketball, and, most of all, making others laugh.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
The most positive influence in my life has to be my mom. She has been there for me through good and tough times, taught me right from wrong and what the true meaning of unconditional love is. She is my angel and if I end up even half the woman she is, I will be doing great.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
My advice would be to get to know all the people you work with, look out for each other, give each day your all, keep a positive attitude, and work as a team.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
My goal is never ending -- to make a positive impact on someone's life each day.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
One of the most interesting places I have traveled recently to is Oklahoma City, Okla. I went to the bombing memorial and it, by far, was one of my most touching experiences. I would recommend it to anyone. To see the beauty of the memorial at night, go through the tour the next day and see the minute by minute play of the day the bombing was life changing. It makes you look at your life and re-evaluate your priorities.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet anyone that has a story to tell. We can all learn something from each other if we just take the time to sit down and talk. Whether it's about a different outlook on life, how to turn a tragedy into triumph, why someone is acting the way they are and other meaningful life lessons. There is so much we can learn from each other if we just take the time out of our day.