Liberty Spotlight: Senior Airman Samantha Lawson

  • Published
  • By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Name and Rank: Senior Airman Samantha Lawson

Unit: 493rd Fighter Squadron

Duty Title: Intelligence Analyst

Time in Service: 3 years, 6 months

Time at Lakenheath: 2 years, 8 months

Hometown: St. Louis

Hobbies: Reading, working out and playing with my dogs

Core Value Portrayed: Service Before Self

How does the individual portray that core value?
The mission comes first to Lawson. She doesn't leave or take a break until the mission is done correctly. She is also quick to mentor those around her to help get the mission done. She was the only intelligence analyst from the 493rd supporting the Baltic Air Policing mission; she spent more than two months on call, authoring mission and operation reports that were read and recognized by General Welsh (Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force).

Why did you join the Air Force?
I wanted a steady job, a means to pay for education and the opportunity to see the world.

What drives you as an Airman?
I don't know how to give less than 100 percent to my work, thanks to my mother's work ethic. I've also had a lot of positive role models since being at Royal Air Force Lakenheath. I want to be a good role model for Airmen to look up to.

What skills do you possess that set you apart from others?
Again, I really have no idea how to give less than 100 percent on my job. I'm the crazy person who checks e-mail while on leave. I think that my previous college work and longer life experience than a typical Airman fresh out of high school helps.

How does your job support the mission of the 48th Fighter Wing?
Being a part of the 493rd Fighter Squadron, I tactically support their mission by making sure pilots have the correct information going out the door. I also support the mission by ensuring accurate facts are reported from our deployments each and every time.

What has been your favorite place to travel in England/Europe, or where
would you like to go?
I thought Ireland was awesome, but so far my favorite place has been the Baltics. The people there are incredible. Their history and attitude from that history is life-changing.