DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas — It was a bittersweet day at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene Friday.
Tech Sgt. Keshawn Davis has stepped away after 20 years serving the country in the United States Air Force. Davis enlisted in the Air Force in 2002, starting off in North Carolina, and later arrived at Dyess in August 2019.
In her time serving, Davis has earned recognition as the 2007 Airman of the year, 2008 Airman of the Quarter, 'Exceptional Performer' by the Second Air Force Commander, an Air Force Commendation Medal and an Army Commendation Medal.
She said she knows the ups-and-downs that can occur while serving, but it's all about mindset. She shared words of encouragement for the next military generation, including her son, who was sworn in Friday afternoon.
"I would say embrace and enjoy the ride. I would embrace it and enjoy the ride. And always look at the cup half way full. Even during deployments you can look at those cups halfway full," Davis said. "Get a mentor and be a mentor."
Davis said even though she is leaving, she loves the Air Force and is excited for her son to carry on the tradition and be a part of the Air Force family.
At a retirement ceremony held in her honor Friday, Davis' husband of eight years, Enrique, said he is proud of his wife and referred to her as a "real-life superwoman."
Her plan after retirement is to become a real estate broker and open her own real estate brokerage firm.