Air Force enables extraordinary paths Published Dec. 19, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Samantha Saulsbury 460th Space Wing Public Affairs BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- When I was a child, I would sit and watch my mom, a former U.S. Air Force Airman, cook dinner with ease, finish folding laundry at lightning speed, read to and tuck my brothers into bed, sweep the floor, pack lunches and still somehow have some time for herself. Her influence is what ultimately led me to my decision to join the Air Force. This wonder woman taught me that I could complete anything I set my mind to. Now that I'm older, I think I've figured out exactly how I want my future to unfold. My career aspirations though, are not typical of what most dream to be when they grow up. I want to be a mother. My mom taught me that being a service member allowed her to grow professionally, as well as personally. It provided her with wonderful benefits, solid work hours and a sense of security. Naturally, after watching her success, I decided to follow in her footsteps. Joining the U.S. Air Force will allow me to fulfill my ultimate goal of raising a family. I am fortunate enough to work in a job that places emphasis on family and service members' health and welfare. Because of this, I am provided with everything that I need to raise a big, intelligent and healthy family. My little ones will be allowed to be themselves, to get bruised and scraped up because of the healthcare the military provides to service members. Both my fiancée and I will be able to pursue our degrees, allowing us to succeed and support our family after our time with the Air Force is complete. My career field's stable hours will allow me, at least more often than not, to be home with my family for dinner and see my kiddos off to bed. I work hard for a job that works hard for me. I make sure I put my best into everything I do, just like my mom did. Whether that involves how I treat customers, making sure I show up to work on time or diligently completing tasks, I ensure I'm earning the pay, allowances and benefits being in the military provides. I feel secure knowing my hard work and the support from my leaders will likely not lead me down a path to retention boards. My fiancé and I want the absolute best for our future family. We have been provided the best care we could have ever imagined and feel at ease knowing no matter what happens to our family, our Air Force family will be behind us, taking care of us. For a while, I've known that I've wanted to be a mother. Because of everything the Air Force provides, I will be able to accomplish my ultimate goal.