PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, Pa. -- The Air Force Reserve offers the opportunity to serve in a parttime capacity for fulltime benefits. While some may join based on that merit alone, the parttime commitment allows for flexibility of ambitions and life plans outside the military. The Reserve is a volunteer service in the regard that one sacrifices time out of their civilian lifestyle to devote time in service whenever prompted or called upon.
Airman 1st Class Henry Alang Kum
"It has always been my dream to join the military. I was born and raised in Africa, but life was hard over there so i migrated to America. When I came here, I realized how close I was to my dream. I wanted to choose a path that I could be proud of and was non-violent. So, I did my research and chose to be a supply specialist in the Air Force Reserve because it allows me to serve but also grow myself as a civilian."
Airman 1st Class Henry Alang Kum is a supply specialist assigned to the 911th Logistics Readiness Squadron. Growing up in Cameroon, a country in Africa, Alang Kum was inspired by his uncle who served in the military. During his visits he would share photos and stories with his young nephew. In 2022, Alang Kum emigrated to United States. Shortly after he earned his citizenship and enlisted in the Air Force Reserve. While still working on his second year with the 911th LRS base supply, Alang Kum takes pride in ensuring Steel Airmen are equipped with right gear to accomplish the 911th AW's mission to "Defend, Mobilize and Fight."
Senior Airman Grace Strobel
"Joining the military gave me better options for health insurance. But I decided to join the Air Force Reserve after my two brothers made the switch from the Marine Corps to the Air Force. It made sense to follow in their footsteps."
Senior Airman Grace Strobel is a vehicle mechanic assigned to the 911th LRS with more than three years of service. Wanting a reliable skillset that would assist her through life, Strobel knew she wanted to be a mechanic regardless of if it was on ground vehicles or aircraft. When serving at Pittsburgh IAP ARS, Strobel works on heavy vehicles used in snow removal and on the fleet of 911th Security Forces police vehicles. As a civilian Strobel works in her hometown as a gunsmith, specializing in building parts for M1911 pistols.
Staff Sgt. James Fritz
"I'm an Airman, like my father before me. Joining the Air Force was more than a career choice for me. It’s a continuation of a family legacy. I’m honored to carry on this tradition. It’s a privilege to serve my country and community."
Staff Sgt. James Fritz is a public affairs specialist assigned to the 911th Airlift Wing. Fritz joined the Air Force Reserves in 2017. Being a third-generation Airman, Fritz knew he always want to continue his family's legacy. Having an interest in photography and cinematography Fritz leverages his creative abilities to tell the Air Force story and project the mission of Steel Airmen at the 911th AW.
Tech. Sgt. Bradford Scott
"I serve for the tradition, the teamwork, and making a difference in the world. It's been one of the greatest honors of my life to wear the uniform and i sincerely mean that. It’s given me ever good opportunity I’ve had in my life."
Tech Sgt. Bradford Scott is a ground safety specialist assigned to the 911th AW. In 2002 his service began by following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather before him by joining the Army Reserve as a military policeman. In April of 2019 he made the switch to the Air Force Reserve looking for a new challenge and a new career. After serving a combined 22 years, Scott has served on several deployments in Afghanistan supporting missions like International Security Assistance Force, its successor, Resolute Support, and Operation Allies Refuge.
Command Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Jendrzejewski
"I continue to serve alongside the Steel Airmen of the 911th AW because I want to help leaders lead and shape the force for the future. The work I do today, I might not see the results tomorrow, but I want to create an enduring environment that provides a successful path for the next generation. I believe it is every Airman's obligation to put forth their best effort and it is my obligation as a leader to provide them that opportunity."
Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Jendrzejewski’s journey began right here in Pittsburgh, PA. He first enlisted in the Air Force in 1989, training as a Security Forces specialist and serving until 1993. In 2002, he returned to the Air Force Reserve, joining the 32nd Aerial Port Squadron, where he played a major role in the squadron's recognition as the 2019 AFRC and ARC Activity of the Year. During his 30 years of service "Chief Ski" has deployed four times in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. As the 911th AW Command Chief he provides leadership, management and general supervision of a force of 1,429 Air Force Reserve members and more than $2.1 billion in national assets and military hardware.