325th CS Airman shines bright

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Dustin Mullen
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

There are many reasons Airmen choose to serve their country, for one Airman in the 325th Communications Squadron, it was all about a change of pace and a steady future.

Airman 1st Class Randy West is a radio frequency transmission systems apprentice, who maintains radio equipment that is used to communicate with aircraft and various base organizations.

Before his life as an Airman, West spent over three years working at a factory where he built lawnmowers. Upon realizing the lackluster daily grind just wasn’t for him, West searched for another path.

“When I was in high school, my dad pushed me to join the Air Force,” West said. “He recognized the opportunities, and saw how they could benefit me.”

Looking back on that advice, West explored his options in the Air Force. He enlisted Jan. 24, 2017 and flew to Basic Military Training under an open electrical contract.

“Basic [BMT] was about what I expected,” the Greenwich, Ohio, native said with a laugh. “Show up and get yelled at for a while, and do what you are told to do when you are told to do it.”

During basic training, West received his job selection as a radio frequency transmission systems technician.

“At the time, I had no idea what the job entailed, but now I really enjoy it,” West said. “It’s really interesting when you get down into the circuit card level on radios.”

Being an Airman has also allowed West to pursue another great love, wrestling.

“I have been wrestling since about 5th grade,” West said. “My goal is to try out for the Air Force wrestling team this winter.”

Being an avid athlete has provided West with a strong physical pillar, keeping his drive to be fit to fight high. He also equates his passion for wrestling to keeping his head in the game and accepting his responsibilities.

“When you wrestle, it’s just you and your opponent out there,” he said. “So when you lose there is no one else to blame but yourself, which is how I look at life.”

His outlook on life and drive to succeed has helped him leave a good impression on his leadership. He was recently selected to be shadowed by the 325th Fighter Wing commander, allowing him to share his knowledge.

"In Airman West’s short time with us here at Tyndall he has excelled at the radio shop,” said Staff Sgt. Tyler Heninger, 325th CS RF transmissions systems NCO in-charge and West’s supervisor. “While working at a quick pace, he completed his training ahead of schedule, becoming an integral part of our team.

“Since completing training he has actively sought additional responsibilities both in our work center and around our squadron,” Heninger continued. “We look forward to more and better achievements from Airman West in the future."