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AIRMAN SPOTLIGHT: Staff Sergeant Anathi Ndabesizwe Gumede

  • Published
  • Detachment 2, 607th Weather Squadron. USAG HUMPHREYS
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Job title: Battlefield Weather Forecaster

Job description and its impact on the overall mission: Provide rapid and accurate weather forecasts & information to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of supported Army combat aviation, intel-collection, heavy-lift transport and medical evacuation air ambulance missions throughout the Republic of Korea.

Time in the military: 8 years, 1 ½ months

Time at Korea: 3 ½ months

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York, I also spent some of my childhood growing up in Cape Town, South Africa.

Family: I am a single father; my daughter is currently staying with her mother in New Jersey while I am serving in Korea.

Hobbies: I like to remain active so I enjoy any sports or aerobic activity. Outside of that I enjoy art, music, and food.

Why did you join the military? I know it's an urban cliché but I always tell folks I joined to give myself a way out.

What do you do for fun here? I've taken a liking to the art scene in Seoul, and I am also particularly keen on the cultural tours offered by the USO.

What's your favorite Air Force memory or story? I met (Retired) Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlton Kent while stationed in Washington D.C. in 2007. He spoke to me at length about doing the right things in life and making sound decisions. I've always looked to that moment as being a pivotal moment in my life and being a professional Airman and now a junior NCO.

What accomplishment are you most proud of? I'm proud to serve with the folks here at DET 2; I always brag to my family that these are some of the smartest and sharpest people I've been around since entering the Air Force.

Who are your role models? My professional role models are my CC & NCOIC here at DET 2. I really buy into their program and show up to work with a refreshed enthusiasm towards my work because of their insight and leadership. My mother in Cape Town, South Africa continues to remain an inspiration for me, and always has been a strong pillar of support throughout my life and Air Force career.