BAGRAM, Afghanistan – People enlist in the military for a variety of reasons, ranging from money for college to work experience. But some do so for honor. Senior Airman Jonathon Bussard is one of those guys.

Bussard, a 24-year-old Native of Corcoran, Calif., joined the Air Force in Sept. 2006, right out of high school as a security force specialist. Since then, his job has been to protect the people, property and resources of the U.S. government. He chose this profession out of a sense of duty to country and the desire to support a greater cause.

Bussard’s father also served in the Air Force, so he wanted to keep the family-bond of service alive.

The path of entering military service is one that leads to uncharted territory. With the decision, you expect change, said Bussard.

“I needed to do something life changing and this is the best place to do it,” he said.

Bussard is assigned to the 455th Expeditionary Security Force Squadron out of Offit, Neb. The unit is responsible for security of Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

A six-year veteran of the Air Force with three deployments overseas, Bussard never questions his decision to serve.

“I’m very grateful for it,” said Bussard. “It’s been the best decision I’ve ever made my entire life.”

Bussard was in grade school Sept. 11, 2001, and watched the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on TV. Even at such a young age he said he felt the call to duty.

“Seeing it happen and then seeing ground zero had a huge impact on me,” said Bussard. “Coming from a military family who always had something to fight for and believe in, that definitely impacted my decision.”

With a month left in Afghanistan, he’s looking forward to being reunited to his wife Jamie Lynn and his infant daughter. Bussard said he draws strength and focus from the support of his family.

“I talk to my wife regularly,” said Bussard. “She’s the one who puts that smile on my face and makes me realize who I’m fighting for.”

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