First Knight Published Oct. 20, 2009 By 21st Dental Squadron PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Senior Airman Less Hernandez was selected for his week's First Knight award. This award is designed to recognize outstanding Airmen each week for the work they do every day. Duty title: Dental laboratory journeyman Unit: 21st Dental Squadron Hometown: San Antonio, Texas Hobbies: Running, reading, writing, supporting the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns football teams, spending time with my wife, my boxer, and my little brother. Time assigned to unit: 2 years 5 months Last good book read: "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller, for the fourth time. How has joining the Air Force impacted your life? The Air Force demands self-discipline and, in turn, provides stability. Every opportunity for professional as well as personal growth is available - this is true of no other job I've had in my life. If you were Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for one day, what would you change? I would ensure that the emphasis of the "whole person" concept begins with one's primary duties. Volunteering is admirable until it is used as an excuse to escape from the workplace. I believe awards and accolades should be reserved for Airmen who excel at what they are paid to do, which is their primary job. What is your favorite aspect about being in the Air Force? I enjoy the automatic respect that comes with wearing the uniform, especially outside the gates. To be honest, military discounts are pretty nice as well. What do you most like about being an Airman? I like being a part of the Air Force family. Whether you serve four years or 30, the Air Force experience unites us for the duration of our lives. Why selected: Senior Airman Hernandez is the perfect example of what today's Airmen should strive to be. From his flexibility in the various specialties of the area dental laboratory to his overall expertise displayed on the job, Les has proven to be an indispensable part of our team. Adding to that, his drive to improve himself through off-duty education, as well as his willingness to give his time to others through programs such as Big Brother, United States Air Force Association Vector programs, and his efforts with youth sports programs in the area, it quickly becomes apparent that Airman Hernandez is extremely deserving of this recognition as this week's First Knight. - Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Trottier, 21st Medical Group superintendent