"... The passing rate is about seven percent..."

"I began my military career in the Army, working in infantry, and loved it. I earned a lot of respect being the only private (PV1) in my unit to be airborne-qualified and to have my expert infantry badge. To earn the badge, I completed and passed a week’s worth of testing, ranging from day and night land navigation to a 12-mile ruck in under three hours. The passing rate is about seven percent. The group I tested in started with 300 people, but only 22 passed. I was the only E1 (private), while the others who passed were staff sergeants (E6), sergeants first class (E7) or officers. After serving four years, my wife and I decided it would be best for the family to move home and do something a little steadier. My dad (Chief Master Sgt. Stuart Bisland, 940th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance superintendent) told me about the wing’s upcoming refueling mission and I decided to join. I always enjoyed working with my hands, so I chose to become a crew chief. Although I miss the fast-pace of my prior combat position, I like what I do now and getting to spend more time with my family."

Staff Sgt. Daniel C. Bisland, 940th Maintenance Squadron crew chief

Hometown: Rio Linda, California

(Each month, we will share a story of a reservist through a photo, simple quote or article. The goal of this project, similar to the 9th Public Affairs' Faces of Beale, is to learn more about Citizen Airmen. Whether traditional or full-time, every reservist has a unique story and adds to what makes us part of the world's greatest Air Force.)