48th CMS couple displays 'Service Before Self'

  • Published
  • By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Name and Rank: Master Sgt. Rich Camacho and Mrs. Irma Martinez-Camacho

Unit: 48th Component Maintenance Squadron

Duty Titles:

Camacho: Jet engine production manager

Irma: CMS key spouse

Time in Service: 15 years

Time at RAF Lakenheath: 3 years

Hometowns:

Camacho: Bayamon, Puerto Rico

Irma: Goshen, Ind.

Hobbies:

Camacho: Fishing, running, watching baseball, football and ice hockey

Irma: Cooking, cleaning and watching sports

Core Value Portrayed: "Service Before Self"

How do the individuals portray that core value? Camacho and Irma epitomize the meaning of 'Service Before Self' when taking care of our Liberty Warriors. Camacho is a driven Senior NCO who not only gives 100 percent on the job but also teams up with his spouse, to give 100 percent to the 48th CMS Airmen and their families. From providing vital assistance to members and spouses while arranging emergency leave travel or going out of their way to serve as mentors to members who need a little extra help with life's challenges, the couple consistently sacrifice their time and energy to help others.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?

Camacho: I really believe in earning what we have been given: freedom. By serving my country, I give back to those who paid the price before me and justify the freedoms and liberties of those in the future.

Irma: It is an honor to serve a country that has given us so many opportunities and freedom.

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

Camacho: Making master sergeant is my proudest moment up to this point.

Irma: The ability to mentor and help others accomplish their goals and fulfill their needs is a wonderful experience.

What are your personal and/or professional goals?

Camacho: My personal goals are to run a marathon and stay fit. My professional goals are to finish my Course 14, complete my master's degree, and make chief master sergeant.

Irma: My personal and professional goals are to complete my degree and to work with domestic violence victims.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Camacho: Helping people and producing quality, serviceable jet engines. I really like the pressure of my job because it gives me more satisfaction when we're up against a deadline and we meet or beat it.

Irma: Helping my fellow spouses.