From the Top: Getting to know the new commander

  • Published
  • By Lt. Gen. Maryanne Miller
  • Commander, Air Force Reserve Command
(Editor's note: In lieu of a traditional commentary, following is a series of questions and answers designed to introduce Lt. Gen. Maryanne Miller to members of the Air Force Reserve and provide a little personal information about the new Air Force Reserve Command commander and chief of Air Force Reserve.)

Q: What is your hometown?
A: I am from the Buckeye state, and my hometown is Hilliard, Ohio, located just 13 miles northwest of Columbus. And, yes, I am an alumni of The Ohio State University.

Q: How long have you served in the Air Force?
A: As of July, I have 35 years of service in the United States Air Force.

Q: Why did you join the Air Force Reserve?
A: I joined the Air Force Reserve after 7 1/2 years of active service so I could continue to serve as I transitioned to fly float planes for the Washington State Department of Fisheries.

Q: What do you like most about being a Citizen Airman?
A: I enjoy many aspects about being a Citizen Airman, but I cherish most the ability to serve my country while still being able to pursue my volunteer work with the community.

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: I used to own a restaurant, and it was not uncommon for me to eat shrimp pad thai and mango sticky rice more than once a week.

Q: What are your favorite travel destinations?
A: For leisure, my parents and I would sail the Caribbean, particularly the British Virgin Islands. My favorite mission trip destination was to Calcutta, India.

Q: Anything else you'd like to share?
A: I am from a big family that loves to spend time together, so family is very important to me. I believe in hard work and doing the best I can. I believe we all have gifts to give for the betterment of others. I believe in being active in our families, in our communities and in our friendships. I enjoy a smile much better than a frown, but I also get that life's challenges can weigh on us all. I believe we are all not put here to do great things but to do what we can with great compassion.