Warrior of the Week: Senior Airman Tralisha Russell

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt Susan L. Davis
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  




Rank and name: Senior Airman Tralisha Russell

Unit: Grand Forks Air Force Base Honor Guard

Duty title: Ceremonial Guardsman

Time in service: 3 years

Hometown: Omaha, Neb.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?

Serving gives me a sense of humility and understanding of what it means to put others before myself.

What moment or accomplishment as a Warrior of the North are you most proud of and why?

My proudest moment was when I joined the honor guard because it pushes me to my limits and makes me feel like I have accomplished something worthwhile. Honor guard is the first career that showed me my true potential and allowed me to grow into the person I want others to look up to.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part is when I perform at funerals. It's like being the last goodbye which holds a strong purpose. The feeling is unexplainable, but nothing compares to knowing you were the person to share that sacred moment with a family that has lost a loved one.

Who inspires you and why?

My honor guard team members inspire me. We all have our differences; athletic, philosophical, intelligent, genuine, and tough. The differences that my team possess is what ultimately holds me accountable and makes me the best possible me. I know it's a cliché, but we are kind of like a modern day "breakfast club."

What's the first thing that made you think Grand Forks Air Force Base was a cool place other than the temperature or weather?

I realized it was a calm and steady place which helps me focus a lot on education, finances and fitness.