8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
12/26/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Staff Sgt. Travis Kennison, 8th Communications Squadron client systems assistant NCO in charge, was recently named one of the newest members on the Air Force's premier aerobatic demonstration team, the Thunderbirds.
Chosen for his expertise and knowledge on computer systems and virtual private networking, Kennison will serve in one of only a few select positions assisting Thunderbird crew team members and commanders with all their client systems administrator needs.
Made up of 12 pilots and more than 120 enlisted members, the premier demonstration squadron requires the commitment and expertise of a broad range of career specialties. Setting up VPNs allow commanders and staff the ability to access emails and important documents while on the road, and with the Thunderbirds extensive travel commitments, proper and secure networking capabilities are a must.
During the lengthy application process, Kennison submitted a formal application package and took part in a phone interview to determine his qualifications.
"They're high profile, you have to have your stuff straight," said Kennison. "It's going to be a challenge, but I'm looking forward to it."
Kennison, a former broadcast maintenance technician, has nearly finished his one year tour at Kunsan Air Base and feels confident in all he has learned since joining the career field.
"He was my first choice to be the assistant NCO in charge of the CST shop," said Tech. Sgt. Heather McConaghy, 8th CS CST NCO in charge, making note of his ability to handle many tasks and under strict deadlines with persistence, integrity and a strong work ethic.
"We are all very excited for him and know he will do an awesome job!" she added.
Kennison leaves for Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., in February, home of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, where he will be joined by his wife and children for a three year commitment to the team.
"I still have a lot of unanswered questions myself," said Kennison, referring to all the details of the position he will be holding and all of his responsibilities as a CSA with the Thunderbirds. "I'm just going into it with an open mind."
Kennison had the full support of his office and leadership when he applied for the job, which was apparent in his commander's recommendation to the Thunderbirds.
"Travis's accomplishments speak for themselves ... bottom line: He is a proven and recognized manager and top NCO leader in multiple fields," said Maj. Brian Snyder, 8th CS commander.
Unabashedly, Kennison admitted to doing a cartwheel when he saw the news of his acceptance through an email.
"I just stood straight up and did a cartwheel in the middle of the room," said Kennison. "My supervisor didn't even have to ask why; she just said, 'you must have been accepted to the Thunderbirds.'"
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