Yokota Airman helps generals mind their Ps and Qs

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Andrea Salazar
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
KABUL, Afghanistan --   U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christopher Craig, a native of Owensboro, Ky,. is currently on a six month deployment serving as the non-commissioned officer in charge of protocol for NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan at Camp Eggers.

Craig, a Daviess High School graduate, started his deployment in October. He joined the Air Force in Sept. 2000, as an aircraft armament systems, and in 2006 he cross-trained into client systems. Working as protocol during this deployment is a new experience for Craig.

"As protocol we ensure that all of the meetings for key leaders and distinguished visitors are scheduled and run as smooth as possible. We oversee all formal events, ceremonies and coordinate visits from Department of Defense leaders, congressmen and foreign dignitaries," said Craig.

Craig is deployed from Yokota Air Base, Japan as the non-commissioned officer in charge of the 374th Communications Squadron quality assurance section. His duties there are to ensure the proper maintenance and operations of base communications networks, airfield navigational aid systems and to review all contractor statements of work and are in compliance with DoD and Air Force directives.

"Working as protocol has given me the opportunity to step outside my career field," said Craig. "I have gained a lot more of an understanding in how the senior leadership of our chain of command interact and how the process works to ensure the mission of NTM-A is a success."

This is the first time he has been deployed within a coalition environment and the second time being deployed during the holidays.

"One of the best things about this deployment so far has been working side-by-side and forging friendships with people from many different countries," said Craig. "I am proud to be here contributing to the mission."

Being deployed during the holidays isn't something new to Sergeant Craig and his family. Craig also served in 2002-2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"It's hard being away during a time that is meant to be spent enjoying time with friends and family, "said Craig. "But I have always been lucky enough to have awesome co-workers, and that is one thing that I really enjoy about the military; taking care of each other and having supportive friends, especially in a deployed environment."

To family and friends back home, "I appreciate all of the support for myself and everyone else over here. I receive many social media messages from everyone and it means a lot," said Craig. "I miss all of you and am looking forward to the next time I will be able to come visit. Have a happy holiday and take care of each other."