BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. –
A lifelong member of the 940th Security Forces Squadron retired after 33 years of Air Force Reserve service August 7.
Chief Master Sgt. Terrance Jackson has been with the 940th SFS since 1977, when it was the 940th Air Refueling Wing, located at Mather Air Force Base, Calif.
"It was like a family, so I had no reason to go anywhere else," said Chief Jackson. "We had a bond, like the 'blue line' with police officers out in the civilian world. We were all dedicated to protecting our country and we wanted to be on the frontline of defense."
Being a security forces Airman and Reservist, travel was inevitable.
"One of the main highlights was traveling," said Chief Jackson. "I've been to Europe; I used to go to Europe every other year, mostly England. I've been to the Pacific, Japan, and Korea, numerous places in the US and Africa."
The chief will always remember one unique destination.
"My favorite was Egypt," he said. "During the first Gulf War, I ended up at Cairo West Air Base and after the war ended we were able to go to Cairo and visit the sites. I went to the pyramids and rode the Nile River like in Indian Jones and the Temple of Doom. There were dancers and music; down the center of the boat there was fruits, vegetables and rack of lamb, the whole nine yards. I got to see everything I dreamt of as a young man."
Throughout his years as a Reservist, Chief Jackson was able to describe his Air Force Reserve adventures to his civilian co-workers.
"Being able to leave my civilian job for two weeks and going to another country to see how they live on a daily basis. Then, after performing my duty, coming back to the United States and letting others know what it's like to see another country," he said.
The experiences the Air Force Reserve provided Chief Jackson insights few have, but many can appreciate.
"Seeing the world gave me a different perspective on life," he said. "I tell folks all of the time this is one of the best countries in the world. There are a lot of people all over the world that don't have some of the luxuries that we have. And often times, we take it for granted. I appreciate everything I have because I know others around the world don't have what we have here in America."
Now that he has punched out for the last time on his Air Force Reserve timecard, he looks toward the future to see what it holds after retirement.
"There's nothing on the horizon as we speak, but there is always something to do," said Chief Jackson. "When one door closes another door opens. I'm still fairly young; I'm going to find another venture to journey down. And whatever that is, I'm going to do the best I can."
His fellow security forces Airmen recalled what it was like working with Chief Jackson.
"Chief (Jackson) is very positive, very caring and always has your best interest in mind," said Master Sgt. Tye Turner, 940th SFS. "He is very motivating. I can't remember a time in the past when he actually did something for himself."
He described how the chief welcomed all newcomers to the 940th SF.
"Whether it was the youngest Airman coming into the building or an older guy like myself, he'd be standing right at the front door greeting them," Sergeant Turner. "Anytime you want to look up to somebody, he's one of those guys."
As the sun sets on his career, Chief Jackson is left with unforgettable memories and a sense of pride.
"It was a great organization to be a part of," he said. "I was impressed with the professionalism with the members of the Air Force. The standards being maintained and the attention to detail that everyone employed."