This week in Fence Post we are recognizing some of our FSA veterans in honor of Veterans Day. These men and women come from every region of the United States and represent all branches of the armed forces. We say thank you to all of our veterans for your service to this country.
by Latawnya Dia, FSA public affairs specialist
Dana Baucom, a native of Live Oak, Fla., joined the U.S. Air Force at the age of 19, after having completed one year at Lake City Community College. Dana wanted to start a new chapter in her life, travel the world, serve her country and save money to finish college. The Air Force provided all of that and more.
In six short years, Dana served at Lackland Air Force Base (AFB) in San Antonio, Texas; Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Miss.; Patrick AFB in Cape Canaveral, Fla.; Yongsan Army Garrison in Seoul, South Korea; Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan; and Eielson AFB in Alaska, which was her favorite assignment.
“Alaska is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is definitely a land of extremes, and a dream assignment for those who love the outdoors.”
The military holds a lot of memories for Dana — some good and some not so good, but none so memorable as the attack on America on 9/11.
“I was in Korea when the U.S. was attacked,” recalls Dana. “I remember it was actually night time in Korea when it happened. We were on lock-down and there was a gridlock of service members trying to get on base. Most facilities on the base were shut down because the employees were Korean nationals. It was a very difficult time but we were all there supporting each other.”
According to Dana, even in the most difficult situations serving in the military, soldiers find positive ways to take their mind off the seriousness of it all — if only for a brief moment. They work out, read letters from home, watch movies and play games.It becomes more difficult when the holidays come or an anniversary or birthday. Dana remembers sitting in a bunker on her birthday during a rocket attack in Afghanistan.
“During that time, attacks on the base were fairly rare, so it took us all a little bit by surprise. It was a very humbling and scary experience. What a way to spend a birthday.”
One of Dana’s best times spent in the military was in 2002 when she was in Korea. She and some of her Air Force buddies boarded a train to see the U.S. play Poland in a World Cup soccer game in Daejeon. “The U.S. lost the match, but the experience was incredible! I was so proud to be there representing my country.” she said.
After separating from the Air Force and with the help of the G.I. Bill, Dana realized her dream of completing her degree at the University of Florida. In 2009 she graduated with a degree in Forest Resources and Conservation from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. She started her career with the Farm Service Agency in October 2010 and is now a farm loan officer trainee. Dana said she thanks God every day for the men and women serving in the military and has a better appreciation now for their service knowing first hand what they go through.
