GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --
Name: Staff Sgt. Andy Moore

Unit: 319th Air Base Wing Command Post

Duty title: NCO-in-charge of C2 Systems

Time in service: 7 years

Time on station: 2 ½ years

Hometown: Adairsville, Ga.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?
For me, it's the ability to impact lives on a large scale; being a part of something bigger than yourself. I believe that serving your country is one of the most honorable things a man or woman can do.

What moment or accomplishment as a Warrior of the North are you most proud of and why?
One of my biggest accomplishments here at Grand Forks has been getting accepted into the graduate program at Southern California, the number five school in the nation for my specific program of study. As much of as an accomplishment as it was for me, I really feel like it was a team win for my organization, the base and the enlisted force. It was bigger than just me; I think it's important as NCOs to set the example for other Airmen. I think it is important to pursue education because ultimately it strengthens you as an airman and helps you contribute to the Air Force. Education is a pillar of being a great leader and strengthens your ability to lead others, as well as operations. I take great pride in education, because it something that only grows in value over time, giving you the credentials to inspire others.

What is your favorite part of your job?
The best part of my job is having an insight to everything that is happening on base, as well as communicating with the Pentagon and MAJCOM on a daily basis. The command post is such an integral part of daily operations on base, and at every base for that matter; it's very rewarding. If you have ever been down to the command post, all the cameras, scan-in doors, and signs make for an interesting atmosphere.

How do you apply the wing commander's principles of 'passion, proficiency and professionalism'?
Really, all of those principles are collectively involved in to being a great NCO, which I strive to do every day within my organization as well as outside my organization. Leading by example is my biggest goal on a daily basis, to encompass the wing commander's values. As a NCO, an important thing to me is to respect the individuals around me, and value their time as I would my own.

Who or what inspires you and why?
First and foremost my family and God inspire me every day. I try to set an example I want my kids to follow, which has pushed me to strive for success in my career as well as pursing a higher education. I have also had the privilege to work with some great leaders that have mentored me as well as inspired me. Chief Master Sgt. John Crawley was one of the first SNCOs I met in the Air Force and since my first assignment I have inspired to be the type of leader that he was to me, as well as others.

What's the first thing that made you think Grand Forks Air Force Base was a cool place other than the temperature or weather?
The first thing I noticed were all of the buildings here on base seemed newer and not ran down or old. That was a nice sight, as well as the base housing. The housing here is one of the better on base housing communities I have seen. My family and I enjoy the community that I am a part of here at Grand Forks.

Do you have any military service or anyone close to you? If so when and where did they serve?
My brother was in the Air Force from 2001 to 2007 and was stationed at Hurlburt Field, Fla. My father in law was in the Air Force from 1985 to 1993 and was stationed at Hurlburt Field. My wife's grandfather was in the Air Force from 1957 to 1977. He was stationed all over, but retired at Eglin AFB, Fla.