Bolling Airman SOARs to new heights

Senior Airman Brandon Finley, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, was recently named one of only 14 Airmen worldwide to receive a scholarship through the Scholarships for Outstanding Airmen to ROTC program. He will separate from active duty this summer to attend the University of Central Florida to pursue a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. Upon graduating, he will receive a commission as a second lieutenant. (Courtesy photo)

Bolling Airman SOARs to new heights

Published Jan. 19, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Susan Moreno
11th Wing Public Affairs

BOLLING AFB, D.C. -- Senior Airman Brandon Finley, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard ceremonial guardsman, was just named one of only 14 Airmen worldwide to be selected in this year's Scholarships for Outstanding Airmen to ROTC program.

SOAR gives active duty enlisted Airmen the opportunity to advance their careers by allowing them to earn a commission while completing their bachelor's degree as an Air Force ROTC cadet.

After being accepted to the SOAR program, Airmen separate from active duty and are assigned to an ROTC detachment to become full-time college students.
The SOAR program pays up to $18,000 a year in tuition, $900 for text books and up to $500 a month for living expenses.

Some of Airman Finley's accomplishments include earning the Drill Team's prestigious Cross Rifles Patch and Four-Man qualification.

"This patch and position denote dynamic leadership among his peers," said Staff Sgt. Adam Clonick, NCO-in-charge of Drill Team current missions.

He was also awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal during the 2009 inauguration for his "superb leadership" in a contingency situation at the Bolling Club, said Sergeant Clonick. "I could not be a more proud supervisor," he said.

Airman Finley will receive a full scholarship for four years to the University of Central Florida to pursue a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering.

"Aerospace engineering is the science and understanding of planes and aerodynamics," Airman Finley explained. "It's something I've always wanted to do since I was a kid."

He spoke of how much he has enjoyed his time in the Honor Guard and expressed his gratitude toward all who have helped him reach this point in his career.

"I would've never been able to do this without the support of my squadron and group leaders shooting e-mails and making phone calls for me, and I want to thank my family and friends as well."

Sergeant Clonick had warm words for Airman Finley as well.

"Brandon being accepted into this program for me is a no-brainer," said Sergeant Clonick. "From the day he arrived at Bolling, he was always trying to make our team, the Honor Guard and the Air Force a better place. Until we meet as the officer and the sergeant, I wish him the best of luck. I know he will continue to be great for our Air Force."