Remembering Kunsan

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Steven R. Doty
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea --  Airman of the year, 50 pounds in six months, read 12 books in one year, learn two songs on the guitar, visit as many places as possible, work toward a college degree.

What do all of these statements have in common? They are goals; goals that Airmen at Kunsan have set for themselves during their tour here.

Regardless of rank, Airmen all over Kunsan are doing things to better their lives or challenge themselves in various ways.

Colonel CQ "Wolf" Brown, 8th Fighter Wing commander, chose to learn to play the saxophone on his own aided by a few introductory lessons before arriving at Kunsan.

"Learning to play the saxophone is something I have always wanted to do," said Colonel Brown. "It was a personal goal I set for myself understanding that we must constantly challenge ourselves in order to develop as both individuals and Airmen."

Goal setting is a powerful process for thinking about the future and a motivational tool in turning a vision for the future into reality.

Airman Jennifer Beesley, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron and first term Airman said, "I knew when I got here that there was so much to do and so much to experience," said Airman Beesley "I told myself that I would do everything I could to gain a perspective on the Korean culture and learn about myself in the process."

The process of setting goals helps people choose where they want to go in life. By knowing precisely what they want to achieve, it helps to concentrate their efforts. More than this, properly-setting goals can be incredibly motivating, and as Airmen get into the habit of setting and achieving goals, they'll find their self-confidence builds fast.

For many here, Korea is a test of endurance, discipline and hard work, yet it can also be the ideal situation to achieve a new position in life. Some choose to expand their cultural horizons while others hone their skills as a musician.

"Playing music did more for me than just excite me," said Staff Sgt. Greg Colburn, 8th Maintenance Group and part-time musician. "It made me feel good to know that I was uplifting morale and creating an entertaining atmosphere in a sometimes stressful environment. Playing music for Airmen also taught me a lot about myself."

There are those who exercise daily to get fit, while others exercise their minds toward a higher education.

"I knew I would be here for two years and knew I could work toward my degree," said Senior Airman Cory Boatwright, American Forces Network broadcaster. "I buckled down and decided to make an impact in my personal life in order to earn a commission one day. It makes me feel great to know I did more than just my job; I made the best out of my two years here."

Each goal is specific and personal to each and every individual.

Former President of the United States Ronald Reagan once said, "My philosophy of life is that if we make up our mind what we are going to make of our lives, then work hard toward that goal, we never lose - somehow we win out."

By setting defined goals, Airmen can potentially raise self-confidence, take pride in achievement and recognize their abilities through those goals. Goals are especially important here as they allow individuals to feel a greater sense of accomplishment after a long and challenging year.

There are many opportunities offered here such as learning an instrument, getting fit, making new friends, volunteering or learning a new skill. It is up to each person on how they want to remember their year at Kunsan.