Reservist parlays military training to civilian career

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Randy LeMay
  • 916th Air Refueling Wing
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  As a recent graduate of the Raleigh Police Academy, Officer Justin Patton is no stranger to facing new challenges and responsibilities.

Sergeant Patton, the new first sergeant for the 916th Security Forces Squadron watched more than 40 members of his squadron deploy in early August after being selected for the job just a few months earlier. He has been with the 916th Air Refueling Wing since September 2001 as a member of the civil engineer squadron.

After 30 weeks of rigorous training, Sergeant Patton was among a class of 26 officers who made the transition from cadet to police officer. During the graduation ceremony, Sergeant Patton received the Officer Bunn Memorial Award for his overall performance.

"When dealing with the personal issues of our members, you have to be somewhat of a disciplinarian," said Sergeant Patton, "but at the same time you have to remain approachable."

Sergeant Patton explained that being a police officer on the civilian side made it easier coming to security forces. It makes you more receptive to working and dealing with different types of people everyday.

As a first sergeant, I deal with all the family support issues that arise before a deployment, stated Sergeant Patton. I just try and keep in touch with families while their loved ones are gone. Sergeant Patton's work of taking care of the families has exploded since the deployment, but he reports that everyone seems to be doing well at this stage.

"I'll try to do the best job I can to help and not let anyone down," added Sergeant Patton.
"I will be there to handle any problem that our security force folks may have and anyone else for that matter."