December Spotlight: Master Sergeant Mark Roath

  • Published
  • By Mr. Jeremy Roman
  • 301st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Q: How long have you been with the 301st?

I officially served my first unit training assembly (drill weekend) December 2, 2000 and have been here since. Originally, I enlisted July 24, 1981 after graduating as a junior in high school. 

 

Q: What did you want to do as a kid?

I wanted to be in Air Force like my father. I started Army ROTC in junior high and was in Air Force ROTC throughout high school.  Originally, I wanted to fly aircraft, but my eyesight would not let that happen. Once I saw the F-16A released to public in 1974 at Carswell Air Force Base, Texas with my grandfather, I knew that if I couldn’t fly… I was going to work on the F-16 and a few years later that was my reality.

 

Q: Why did you join the military?

I wanted to follow my father into Air Force and I also wanted to work on jets.

 

Q: What is your favorite part of the job?

I have enjoyed being an F-16 Fighting Falcon crew chief, F-117A Nighthawk crew chief and aircraft instructor. I also enjoyed the opportunity to deploy to many countries and temporary duty [TDY] locations worldwide. I can say I have met a lot of good men and women during my career... some of whom have passed on and some who have moved on to new life experiences. 

 

Q: What are your career goals?

Retire from Air Force (38 years - DONE)! I wanted to be a good example and mentor. I worked hard to learn as much as I could during my career. I think I accomplished all this. I'll be staying with the wing in a civilian capacity.

 

Q: What are your hobbies? 

I enjoy fishing, boating and woodworking -- making wooden pens and pencils.

 

Q: What is something people might not know about you?

While stationed at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, I was on the base's Stunt Kite Flying Team from 1993 - 1994.

 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve used in your military career?

The more you know in your career field, the better you will be as a well-rounded crew chief and maintainer.

 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

During the time I have been in the military, I am proud to call the men and women in my squadron my family because I really spent more time in a day with them during my waking hours. I have their back and I know they have mine.

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