Editor’s note: This feature is the tenth in a series of Air Commando spotlights at Cannon. The Airmen being highlighted are recent Diamond Sharp and Hard Charger Award winners.

link U.S. Air Force photo: Senior Airman Xavier Lockley

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kyna Lunsford, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron re-enlistments and extensions technician, was selected as a Diamond Sharp Award recipient for the month of May because of her outstanding work and commitment to the mission.

By Senior Airman Xavier Lockley

27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

Many Airmen have unique stories as to why they joined the Air Force. Some joined to help pay for school, others have had the lifelong dream of serving their country, while a few had to work harder in their civilian lives just to put food on the table.

For Senior Airman Kyna Lunsford, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron reenlistments and extensions technician, working hard to make ends meet is nothing new.

“Before I joined the Air Force, I was working three different jobs trying to make a decent living,” said Lunsford. “I knew the jobs I had would not fulfill any of my goals, but nonetheless, I gave my all regardless of what I was doing. I was always taught that if you want to advance in the world, there is only one way and that is through hard work.”

The value of a solid work ethic is something that can be attained by someone with drive, motivation and a will to succeed at whatever they do despite adversity. Lunsford attributes her fear of failure as her motivation to be successful.

“I never want to let anyone down,” said Lunsford. “I am scared to fail and maybe sometimes that is a bad thing, but I always want to do my best. When you give your all, you often do great work.”

Growing up in a military family, Lunsford learned how to get the most out of life. The priceless advice that she was given by those who served prior to her enlisting played a major role in her decision to enlist.

“My father served in the United States Navy and his guidance and knowledge was invaluable,” Lunsford said. “He always reminded me to take pride in my work. My grandfather was also vital in my decision to join, as he served in the Air Force and encouraged me to stay the course and work hard because ‘you never know who is watching.’”

Role models and mentorship are useful tools that all Airmen can benefit from while striving to achieve their goals.

“To advance in your career, you have to be the best at what you do and prove to your leadership that you can do anything that they task you with,” Lunsford stated. “That is what I tried to do and so far it has worked out well for me. Airmen who take pride in what they do are the backbone of the Air Force and will continue to make a difference with each and every assignment.”