The Charlie West Spotlight for August is Staff Sgt. Travis Barrett, a Cyber Transport Apprentice, assigned to the 130th Communication Flight.
As a Cyber Transport Apprentice, Barrett installs, maintain and troubleshoots the 130th Airlift Wing’s communication network.
Barrett is originally from Logan, W.Va. and is a 2002 graduate of Chapmanville High School. He entered the Air Force in 2007 as a Fire Fighter.
“I was stationed in Colorado Springs, Osan AB, South Korea and Aviano Air Base, Italy,” Barrett said. “All three installations were unique. Being able to see the Air Force in each perspective was very interesting.”
Barrett also enjoyed the ability to experience the local culture while stationed in Asia and Europe.
He joined the 130th Airlift Wing as a Fire Fighter in 2015, before joining the Communications Flight a year later.
“He’s one of the hardest working folks that we have,” said 130th CF Superintendent Chief Master Sgt. Michael Powell. “He tackles all tasks and assignments without issue or hesitation. His work ethic is by far one of the best.”
Barrett contributes his work ethic to his upbringing as a West Virginian.
“We are known for getting the job done, but also stepping up and helping others get the job done,” Barrett explained. “West Virginia has always been known for its hard work ethic and desire to help others, and I think that shines within the 130th.”
For the future, Barrett wants to grow in his profession.
“I want to build on my job skills and obtain as many certifications as I can,” Barrett said. “I have always had an interest in computer networking and with the fast pace of technology, you can never learn enough.”
In addition to growing in his profession, he would love to travel the world.
Barrett’s favorite moment in the 130th AW was preparing for a presidential visit.
“It was interesting to see all the work that was involved,” said Barrett. “I enjoyed working with the White House Communications staff to make sure everything was in place.”
On what it means to serve in the West Virginia Air National Guard and the 130th Airlift Wing, Barrett believes that taking pride in the mission in addition to knowing your place within the bigger picture and taking care of others.
“Being in the 130th AW, West Virginia Air National Guard, and the military as a whole means understanding the importance of one’s role as well as the role that each person plays,” Barrett said. “It also means being proud to serve your state and country, and that losing a single person can degrade the whole mission.”
Two of the most important things to Barrett is his belief in God and joining the Air Force.
“God has taken me places I never dreamed of going. I’ve been given many opportunities in the Air Force that I never thought I would experience,” Barrett said.