Lajes sergeant 100-percent fit to fight

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Laura Holzer
  • American Forces Network Detachment 6
LAJES FIELD, Azores (AFPN) --  People may spend hours studying to get a 100 percent on a test, but a sergeant here spent hours in the gym and at fitness sessions to achieve a perfect score on the Air Force fitness test -- twice.

Senior Master Sgt. Robin McMullen, chief controller of the 65th Operations Support Squadron’s air traffic control tower, has been working out since she was 17. She said she has always felt fitness should be a part of the Air Force lifestyle and not just a test to pass every year.

“Senior Master Sergeant McMullen helps keep fitness a focal point for the squadron by setting the example while guiding and mentoring supervisors,” said Lt. Col. Jack Sproul, 65th OSS commander. “She always provides moral support to unit personnel.”

When the Air Force changed its fitness standards in January 2004, Sergeant McMullen said she was excited and apprehensive.

“I knew I would need to work on my run,” she said. “I’ve also tried to incorporate some cardio in my workout, but it wasn’t always running.”

As one of the leaders in her squadron, Sergeant McMullen said she had to pass the fitness test. Not only did she pass, she received a perfect score.

“I get a lot of flack (from my Airmen) because they say I get a lot of points because I’m old, but I don’t let it get to me,” the 43-year-old said. “To be the oldest in the squadron is to be the wisest.”

She is not only the wisest, but because she scored her second perfect score, she is the fittest as well.

“Sergeant McMullen’s second consecutive 100-percent fitness assessment is a truly remarkable achievement and a great example for all our troops,” Colonel Sproul said. “It’s a testament to her long-term commitment to the Air Force’s ‘fit-to-fight’ culture.”

Along with her own personal workouts, Sergeant McMullen also attends mandatory squadron fitness sessions three times a week, not only to maintain fitness but to encourage her Airmen.

“I’ve always believed in leadership by example,” she said. “I know that when I was a young troop, I’d looked at my leaders and, if they were asking me to do something, I’d like to know it’s something they were willing to do and could do themselves.”

Sergeant McMullen proved age is nothing but a number. It is also what she said about her score.

“It’s not about a score,” she said. “In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me if the scores just went away because that’s not what the Air Force wants. It’s about making fitness a part of your life, and the Air Force is asking me to help my troops who are not passing and helping them with their score.”

“She’s a positive influence and continually encourages everyone to improve their personal fitness,” Colonel Sproul said. “She’s one of the more ‘seasoned’ members of the squadron, yet proudly can outscore many of the younger troops.”

And with two more years left until she retires, there is still time for others to catch up to her.

“No way,” she said. “No way.” (Courtesy of U.S. Air Forces in Europe News Service)