NCO in charge of SFS vehicle section displays "Service Before Self"

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  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  

Name and Rank: Staff Sgt. Stephen Bratcher

Unit: 48th Security Forces Squadron

Duty Title: Security forces vehicle section NCO in charge

Time in Service: 8 years, 9 months

Time at RAF Lakenheath: 2 years, 6 months

Hometown: North Branch, Mich.

Hobbies: Playing intramural sports, traveling, skiing and playing with my dog

Core Value Portrayed: 'Service Before Self'

How does the individual portray that core value?

Staff Sgt. Bratcher is always available day and night for mission support. His actions are vital to the security mission. Bratcher assists with vehicle issues and when personnel have issues he is quick to respond. Additionally, Bratcher aided in establishing supplemental living conditions when the 48th SFS dormitories lost all water supplies by quickly providing alternative living quarters and bedding for more than 90 Airmen.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?

Serving in the Air Force is important to me because I know I'm contributing to something larger than personal gain and my future. I'm assisting in the security of future generations just as prior generations have done for me.

What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of?

I've been lucky enough to have provided security for numerous distinguished visitors on numerous deployments. I was even a part of history and escorted the body of Saddam Hussein after his death. I hope to continue my deployment experience in support of future operations downrange.

What are your personal and/or professional goals?

My goals are to continue my education and complete my Community College of the Air Force degree within the next six months.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I enjoy having a noticeable effect on mission accomplishment by providing vehicles and supplies to our defenders (Security Forces Airmen). I also enjoy supporting the safety of all RAF Lakenheath personnel and residents. I work closely with our police services section and ensure the vehicle-speed radar enforcement cart is fully operational and placed in randomly selected locations. Personally, it's all about working together and supporting Team Lakenheath.