Contract administrator displays 'Service Before Self' Published Oct. 9, 2013 By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Name and Rank: Master Sgt. Sarah Gordon Unit: 48th Contracting Squadron Duty Title: Contract administrator Time in Service: 16 years, 1 month Time at RAF Lakenheath: 2 years, 1 month Hometown: New Bedford, Mass. Hobbies: Spending time with my family, Zumba, scrapbooking, photography and traveling Core Value Portrayed: Service Before Self How does the individual portray that core value? Gordon consistently puts the mission and the needs of others ahead of her own desires and commitments. In addition to her regular contracting duties, she filled in as the squadron superintendent and first sergeant where she ensured the unit was prepared for a Phase II base exercise. She also made certain that six holiday packages were mailed out to deployed squadron members who were away from their families. Additionally, she volunteers to be and serve as the unit Combined Federal Campaign representative at Liberty 5/6 events, 48th Mission Support Group deployed spouse events, mentors a First Term Airmen's course and coordinated a 48th Mission Support Group Air Force Assistance Funds Commissary fundraiser. Her actions and determination were recognized by her selection for promotion to master sergeant and being awarded 48th Contracting Squadron NCO of the 4th Quarter and NCO of the Year for 2012. Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? Serving in the Air Force is important to me because it teaches values, teamwork, leadership, and provides the education and tools to become better, more responsible individuals when we separate or retire. The Air Force has provided a great career for me and life for my family. I am very thankful to be a part of it. What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of? I am most proud of being selected to have dinner with the President and making master sergeant my first time testing. What are your personal and/or professional goals? My personal goals are to earn a degree in business. My professional goals are to complete my Course 14, and then finish the classes needed to receive my level II in contracting and eventually become a contracting officer. What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of my job is working with such a diverse group of people, from civilians and U.K. Ministry of Defence employees, to the customers from any given specialty and local U.K. vendors. I learn something new every day.