Bolling Airman receives SOAR

Published Jan. 23, 2009
By Senior Airman Tim Chacon
11th Wing Public Affairs

AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON -- Senior Airman James Cashwell, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard, recently received news that he was accepted into the Scholarships for Outstanding Airmen to ROTC program allowing him the opportunity to move from the enlisted core into the officer tier of the Air Force.

Airman Cashwell will separate from active duty in November and begin school at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He will also be enrolled in the school's ROTC program.

He has been focused on getting his commission since he first came into the Air Force. "I knew from the time I came in the Air Force that I wanted to become an officer," said Airman Cashwell. "I am really fortunate that the Air Force has such great programs like SOAR to allow me the chance to advance my career."

He will pursue a degree in international business at UNCC. Upon graduation, Airman Cashwell will be commissioned into the Air Force as a second lieutenant. He also plans to pursue learning a second language.

The processes of applying for SOAR can be very demanding, this was no different for Airman Cashwell. He spent numerous hours putting his package together, sometimes staying at work until 2 a.m. and sleeping on the couch in the Drill Team's office.

"It was a lot of hard work getting everything together," said Airman Cashwell. "I put a lot of time into it, but I could not have done it without the help of my leadership. Capt. Brent Mundie and Master Sgt. Steven West were absolutely crucial in helping me get everything done."

Programs like SOAR are designed to help Airmen progress in their careers. "I encourage all Airmen to pursue any and all opportunities like SOAR," said Airman Cashwell.

The SOAR program pays up to $15,000 a year in tuition, $900 for text books and $500 a month as a living stipend.
"I have always wanted to be an officer, but I am glad I had the chance to be enlisted first," said Airman Cashwell. "I think it will really help me be a better leader."

He has spent four years in the Air Force Honor Guard and most of that time on the Drill Team. During his time on the Drill Team he has had the opportunity to travel extensively

"I have known Airman Cashwell since technical school and I can't think of anyone who would make a better officer," said Senior Airman Peter Ising, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. "I know he has worked hard for this and he really deserves it."

"I really enjoyed being in the Honor Guard," said Airman Cashwell. "I know I will take the lessons I learned here and use them my entire life. The Honor Guard has given me a strong sense of discipline, heritage, and a real understanding and appreciation for the customs and courtesies that make the Air Force a proud and honorable branch of service."

This summer he will move to the Charlotte area to begin the next step in his life and career. "I am really excited about taking the next step, but I am going to miss some of what I am leaving behind here," he said.

"I can't thank enough the people who have helped me," said Airman Cashwell. "I don't know if I could have done it without their help."