Assistant fire chief displays "Service Before Self" Published Dec. 6, 2012 By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England - -- Name and Rank: Tech. Sgt. Gerald Crates Unit: 48th Civil Engineer Squadron Duty Title: Assistant fire chief of health and safety Time in Service: 15 years Time at Lakenheath: 2 years Hometown: Orange, Calif. Hobbies: Practicing Jiu-Jitsu, running, playing guitar, traveling, spending time with family and surfing Core Value Portrayed: "Service Before Self" How does the individual portray that core value? Crates is always the first to volunteer to help out a fellow fire fighter with whatever he or she needs. He works hard to keep our firefighters physically fit and medically qualified. He consistently strives to make this department the best flight in United States Air Forces in Europe by placing the mission before his own personal needs. Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? To know that I am part of a team that is bigger than I am and that it preserves the Nation's freedom is an awesome feeling. What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of? When I retrained and sewed on my fire badge, I knew my abilities would be tested every day and people would depend on me to act without hesitation. What are your personal and/or professional goals? To complete my degree in Emergency and Disaster Management, retire with a master's degree, and someday be a fire chief. My personal goal is to participate in and complete a full marathon. What is your favorite part of your job? When the call comes in, we roll, and that's what it's all about. I love it!