First Knight Published Jan. 27, 2009 76th Space Control Squadron PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Tech. Sgt. Eric Buys was selected for this week's First Knight award. This award is designed to recognize outstanding Airmen each week for the work they do every day. Name: Tech. Sgt. Eric R. Buys Unit: 76th Space Control Squadron Duty Title: Counterspace Systems crew chief Time in service: Nine years Time assigned to the unit: Two years Hometown: Muskegon, Mich. Hobbies: Snowboarding, Golfing, Football, and Soccer Favorite music: "Journey" Last good movie: Batman "The Dark Knight" Last good book: The Night Stalkers: Top Secret Missions of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Aviation Regiment What's your favorite thing about being in the Air Force?: The ability to be a part of something bigger than yourself. While in the Air Force, I have been given more opportunities than I would've ever had if I were a civilian. This could not be more evident than during a recent AEF deployment to Iraq. During this deployment, I was able to volunteer at an Air Force Theater Hospital. Assisting injured military and civilians has been the single most memorable experience of my life. Why selected: "Tech. Sgt. Buys is a driven individual with a positive attitude that is contagious around the squadron. His motivation and enthusiasm show through in his roles as crew member, staff instructor and unit PTL. He consistently demonstrates excellent leadership and is involved with base and community projects, including Denver Kids Inc. mentorship program and a cold-weather clothes drive. His selflessness and dedication have greatly enhanced our unit's effectiveness and exemplify the Air Force's Core Values." - Master Sgt. Terrell L. Borel, maintenance superintendent