SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The Weasel of the Week series asks Team Shaw to share their experiences, Air Force spirit and personalities. We sat down with Senior Airman Joel Cook, 77th Fighter Generation Squadron aircraft armament specialist, to get to know him and his job. Cook is responsible for performing weapons system operational checkouts for F-16 Vipers, end-of-runway checks, loading live munitions utilized on the aircraft and training other Airmen. Outside of his military career, he plans on becoming a licensed realtor and a church minister.
Where are you from?
I’m from Cleveland, Ohio.
Why did you decide to join the Air Force?
I chose the Air Force because I knew it would help me support my family.
How long have you been at Shaw?
I’ve been at Shaw since March of this year.
What is one Air Force resource you found that is incredibly beneficial?
I find the large amounts of educational opportunities available to military members very helpful.
What is your favorite part of South Carolina?
I love the weather and the lifestyle of the people here.
What is your favorite part of your hometown?
My favorite part of my hometown is the fact that most of my family is in the same city, so we can spend a lot of time together.
How would you describe a normal day for you?
A normal day starts with me checking out tools from the support section, being given my tasks for the day and then accomplishing whatever scheduled maintenance or munition loading is projected for the day.
What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?
I wish people knew just how enjoyable it is.
What is one word that describes how you lead?
Integrity. I try to stay honest and remain a good example of that honesty.
What is your favorite sport? Team?
My favorite sport is basketball and my favorite team is the Cleveland Cavaliers.
What is your least favorite part of your job? How do you make sure it gets done?
I dislike the occasional days you have when you get a problem that you didn’t anticipate. However, I get through those days by understanding that it’s the nature of the beast and that I’m the one trained to get the job done.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I enjoy the cultural diversity that comes with the Air Force as a whole and the stories that can be found in my career field.
What would you like to say to the people back home?
Your support and words of encouragement haven't gone unnoticed. I appreciate everyone who’s pushed me to keep striving for success and I wouldn't be where I am without each and every one of you.