349th ARS Airman earns spotlight performer > McConnell Air Force Base > Display
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349th ARS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Colby L. Hardin
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Staff Sgt. Derek Lyles, 349th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, was chosen as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of Nov. 11 to 15.

Lyles has been stationed at McConnell AFB for a more than four years and has been in the Air Force for approximately five years.

When he's not working, he enjoys working on cars and riding his motorcycle, working out or training his Australian Sheppard.

"Staff Sgt. Lyles expertise, professionalism and to the point attitude has been crucial to the 22nd Operations Group mobility shops continued success," said Capt. Phil Savage, 22nd OG mobility chief, "This is all due to the fact that he is the epitome of a professional multitasker."

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
The most positive influence in my life is my parents because they instilled a good work ethic early on, and ensured that I had a good education growing up.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
My advice to new Airmen would be to work hard and learn their job. Always take new tasks as an opportunity to grow, and it's never too early to start preparing yourself for more responsibility as you promote.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
One goal that I would like to accomplish is to get out to Edwards AFB and work with the test squadron out there. It's a great opportunity to really expand your knowledge of the jet after going to the schoolhouse and get great experience.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place that I have traveled to is Wake Island. The history of the island and amount of isolation that still exists there makes it a great place to go to.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world it would be Morgan Freeman, so that he could narrate my life.