Air Force District of Washington Capital Airman: Captain Katherine Brock

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Matt Davis
  • Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs
Joint Base Andrews, Md. --  Captain Katherine Brock, an Air Force District of Washington Capital Airman, has a unique opportunity that not many get to experience every day. As a protocol officer in AFDW's Ceremonies and Protocol directorate, Brock has a direct role in how the rest of the country sees our military.

Originally from Spring, TX, Brock joined the Air Force because she was recruited to join the swim team at the Air Force Academy. That would begin her journey into becoming an Airman and serving as a Personnel Officer.

"I thought I would do 5 years, get out, and pursue another path," said Brock. "Since graduation, my outlook has completely changed."

Brock started her active duty career at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama working as the military personnel section chief and for the Headquarters Air Force Joint Reserve Officer Training Corps.

"Right out of college, I was in charge of 23 people and it was extremely intimidating," said Brock. "But I had an awesome Master Sgt. and made it work."

After 3 years at Maxwell, Brock then accepted a positon to do protocol support for AFDW. As a protocol officer, she is responsible for coordinating ceremonial support for the Air Force throughout the NCR and units across the globe.

"It was a little rough at first trying to learn a new job and it was something that I've never done before," said Brock. "A lot of people do not want to do protocol with my career field but I love my job. If I could do this the rest of my career I would."

Since arriving at AFDW, she has had the opportunity to work with the Air Force's top leaders and plan retirements, promotions and other various ceremonies across the region. Brock says the most impactful part of her job is working with the Air Force Honor Guard on funerals.

"It's an honor and privilege to be able to pay respects to fellow servicemen and women," said Brock.

Brock continues to be excited about her career and hopes to eventually serve around the world in support of the Air Force mission.  

"I am grateful for the leadership opportunities that I've had over the past 4 years and am excited for the opportunities ahead," said Brock. "My career is pretty broad so I am not sure where it will take me. I hope to deploy within the next few years and get stationed overseas."

Air Force District of Washington Capital Airmen have made a difference in their unit by their outstanding performance. Capital Airmen, selected by AFDW leaders, epitomize the pride, teamwork, and success that drive the AFDW mission.