A Military Family Tree

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Ken Johnson
  • 117th Air Refueling Wing, Public Affairs
Most people have heard the statement that the military is like family. For some, the family is military. The generational presence in the armed forces is more common than you might expect.

The desire to serve goes beyond simple genetics. It's a way of life that is experienced from birth and becomes a part of family core values.

Senior Master Sgt. Sheila Clingman, 117th Air Refueling Wing Recruiting Superintendent, grew up with both grandfathers serving in the military. She talked about the influence they had on her life and her decision to serve.

"Just the exposure being around military members and getting to go with them to work, it gave me the exposure and I liked seeing that discipline and liked seeing that comradery and I always thought I wanted to be a part of that," said Clingman.

Clingman has five family members currently serving at the 117 ARW. Two of which are her sons Staff Sgt. John Clingman, aircrew flight equipment and Senior Airman Vince Clingman, crew chief. When asked what she thought influenced them the most, she explained that the exposure and life's events played a big part of that along with the benefits that are available. Other members include her husband and two nephews.

If you would like to continue a legacy or start one of your own in the Alabama Air National Guard, contact the 117th Air Refueling Wing Recruiting Office toll free at 800-892-6711.