This is not your father's Korea

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Marlin Zimmerman
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Have you ever heard the phrase, "This is not your father's Korea?" As always is the case, there is an exception. Proving that an assignment in Korea truly is becoming the assignment of choice, Master Sgt. Frank Irvin, Sortie Support Flight Chief for the 5th Reconnaissance Squadron, got to share a rare opportunity: serve his remote tour with his sons assigned at the same base.

The Pittsburgh native came to Korea in February. When he arrived, his son Airman Basic Frank E. Irvin III was already at Osan. In April, his other son, Airman 1st Class Lamon Irvin joined the pair. Frank is an entry controller with 51st Security Forces Squadron and Lamon is a Materiel Management Apprentice with 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron.

Sergeant Irvin knows just how lucky he was to have the opportunity. Many things had to fall into place for this opportunity to present itself. "It is my opinion people are placed in your path of life for a reason. I strongly believe it was a blessing to get to serve with my sons; one I will not take for granted," he said.

"Most parents ... don't have the opportunity to see the values they instilled in their children in action," he added. "I get to mentor them and help them make the most of the opportunities the Air Force provides. How great is that?"

When asked if he had any advice for other service members with children who serve, he said "I hope and pray your children will understand and make choices that will exceed what you have accomplished in your own Air Force career. We can give them the tools to survive in this life, but it is up to them to choose to use them."

When asked who inspired them to join the service, both sons echoed the same message: "My dad inspired me to join the service." They went on to say what attracted them to the Air Force was that they could have a career that was worthwhile, and could get to travel and work on their education all at once.

Finally, Airman Lamon Irvin advises "If you need a step up in knowing what the Air Force has in store, then join with a family member or friend who has sufficient years in the service and you will always have that extra knowledge.

Airman Frank Irvin III added, "Enjoy every second of it! Don't take it for granted; a lot of people don't get to work at the same base with the family member in the service."