Airman’s Air Force Journey
by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alysa Calvarese
January 30, 2024

A light bulb went off.

“If I’m at the same job for the next 20 years, I’ll go crazy,” thought Airman 1st Class Sydney Gore, 720th Operations Support Squadron command support staff technician. “I want to challenge myself in my career.”

Gore shares her story of a life-altering decision to recite the oath of enlistment and join the U.S. Air Force, leading her to where she is now.

She joined in her late 20’s, leaving the comfort of her hometown Raleigh, NC, bringing the insight of her previous life to her new one at Hurlburt Field. Gore believed the Air Force was a good career choice because she would be able to travel, meet new people and most importantly serve her country.

She embraced the opportunity to serve, as it allowed her to continue making a positive impact on people's lives, just in a different way than her previous occupation.

“At my last job I worked in workers comp insurance claims, I felt like I was helping people during that time,” said Gore. “I wanted to continue to do that.”

Initially, Gore was in training to become a remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator, during her technical school she realized that the job was not a good fit for her. She expressed interest in exploring a different role, and as a result she was assigned to a position that brings her genuine enjoyment in personnel.

“Having Gore on our team has been a valuable asset,” said Staff Sgt. Imani Johnson, 720th OSS assistant Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of supply. “Her professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence are crucial factors in the overall success and efficiency of our squadron.”

In her daily responsibilities, Gore manages various tasks, including the processing of paperwork related to in and out processing, duty information, evaluations, and numerous other military operations. She manages all CSS matters for the 24th Special Operations Wing and the 720th Special Operations Group.

This responsibility puts her in direct communication with Airmen of various ranks within her building, providing a unique perspective and experience in working with personnel at all levels.

“I love interacting with people and helping them with any of their CSS needs,” said Gore. “I know everyone in my building on a first-name basis, and they are all really appreciative of me for what I do.”

Through a career shift, she found fulfillment in serving her country and making a positive impact on people's lives in a different capacity. From her initial role as an RPA sensor operator to her current position managing crucial CSS matters, Gore's story shows resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth.

Now, she looks forward to the future, ready to embrace the next steps in her military career with newfound strength and purpose.

“Since being in the military, I feel like I’ve really grown and become stronger,” said Gore. “I’m ready to see where the next steps take me.”

Whether Gore chooses to serve for 6 or 20 years, she has made an impact on the people around her, just as the Air Force has done for her.

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