Public Affairs Airman displays Air Force core values

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ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Senior Airman Brian Ellis, 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs non-commissioned officer in charge of photography operations, was nominated for the Liberty Spotlight by his chain of command because he practices the Air Force core values of "Service Before Self", "Integrity First" and "Excellence in All We Do."

Commander: Capt. Alysia Harvey 

Time in Service: 5 years 7 months 

Time at Lakenheath: 2 years 10 months 

Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. 

Hobbies: Hockey, football and golf

Core values portrayed: It is impossible to site just one core value for Airman Ellis because he is the epitome of all three core values. Airman Ellis stood up and assumed not only a supervisory position, but a leadership role in the 48th Fighter Wing public affairs office as the non-commissioned officer in-charge of internal information during a six-month period when senior members were deployed. Airman Ellis is responsible for many additional duties, including the public affairs equipment account and land mobile radio accounts, maintaining an inventory of more than $250,000 worth of equipment. Airman Ellis is currently deployed filling a technical sergeant position and is excelling at it.

What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of?
It's hard to narrow down one accomplishment. It's been an honor to be the first person in my family (that I'm aware of) to join the military and serve. I've been able to see places that I never would have thought and do things that most people never have the opportunity to do. I've been through three deployments doing three different jobs and have been able to learn a lot in a short amount of time. Being able to lead photo and take on the responsibility in getting an Airman through upgrade training at this stage in my career as a senior airman when some staff sergeants haven't had the chance was a great learning experience. Winning USAFE Public Affairs Airman of the Year and being recognized at that level was my first award since joining the Air Force. Here at the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, Southwest Asia, I was coined by General David Petraeus the U.S. Central Command Commander. There are many more accomplishments and experiences that I am proud of. Because when I stand in uniform as the National Anthem is played, it brings a sense of pride like nothing else can.

What are your personal and career goals?
Make staff sergeant and continue to learn leadership skills; finish CCAF; learn Spanish, make senior master sergeant, maybe chief master sergeant one day... earn bachelor's and master's degrees, write a book and start a family.