Serving through the season: Airman 1st Class Amber Roaten

  • Published
  • By Valerie Mullett
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. (AFPN) --  Making sure security forces are properly armed and have sufficient ammunition to support their tour is what Airman 1st Class Amber Roaten will be tasked to do as one of the armorers on duty for the 341st Security Support Squadron Christmas day.

"I know I have an important job to do making sure law enforcement and security troops are ready to perform their duties," Airman Roaten said. "I hope to get home next year for the holidays because I haven't seen my parents in two years."

Home for Airmen Roaten is Paris, Tenn., where she graduated from Henry County High School in 2003 and then attended the University of Tennessee at Martin for one year. She has served on active-duty for a little more than two years, having arrived at Malmstrom after finishing basic training and technical school in April 2005.

Like Airmen in Iraq, Afghanistan, Ecuador, South Korea, other world hot spots and across the nation during the holiday season, Airman Roaten knows about sacrifice. Airmen are war fighters. They are highly trained, skilled and valued members of the interdependent force fighting the war on terror. They are always ready to do their job, no matter what day it is.

She has already made alternate plans for celebrating with her husband, John, and some friends.

"We have our own Christmas parties planned and will make the best out of being away from home," she said. "My husband and I will exchange gifts Christmas Eve and when I get home from work Christmas day."

She isn't sure what's in store while working Dec. 25, but "I'm sure we'll think of something special to do."

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