Pararescue Apprentice shows 'Service before Self' Published Sept. 3, 2010 ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Name and Rank: Senior Airman Nathan T. Simonson Unit: 56th Rescue Squadron Duty Title: Pararescue Apprentice Time in Service: 3 years Time at Lakenheath: 1 year Hometown: Susanville, Calif. Hobbies: Triathlons and mountain biking Core Value Portrayed: Service Before Self How does the individual portray that core value? From the very first day a candidate thinks they want to be a pararescueman, they are instilled with a concept of service before self, daily visualizing their creed, "That Others May Live." Airman Simonson displays the selflessness of this creed daily as he continually elevates his training and experience to better himself professionally, and passes on his infectious drive to fellow PJs and squadron members. Airman Simonson powers through training days routinely exceeding twelve hours, driven internally without external motivators. As he performs at the highest of standards he invests his knowledge and experience in his fellow teammates, dedicated to a duty which is truly a lifestyle commitment. Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? I like being a pararescueman and performing the duties they're tasked with. What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of? Completing initial mission qualification training ahead of the career field average so I was ready for my first combat deployment two months from arriving on station. What are your personal and/or professional goals? Be a small business owner. What is your favorite part of your job? Mountaineering, high-altitude, climbing and rope work.