War on terror drives Chief's decision to re-enlist Published July 5, 2007 By Corey Dahl 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Omdal could be golfing right now - but he's not. He could be taking a nap or looking for a job in the civilian sector - but he's not. He could be planning a wild, week-long Mediterranean getaway with his wife - but he's not. Instead, the 21st Space Wing's command chief is at work, as usual - and he couldn't be happier. Chief Omdal decided to re-enlist in the Air Force June 19, opting for three and a half more years of military service over retirement or a high-paying corporate job. Why? Because, he says, he loves the Air Force. "I love what I'm doing," he said. "It still gives me the opportunity to continue to be involved in the lives of our Airmen and, hopefully, make a difference." He wasn't always so convinced. Serving since 1980, Chief Omdal had planned on enlisting for the last time on Sept. 10, 2001, but the events of the following day ended up changing his mind. "I really thought it was going to be my last enlistment but, certainly, the events of Sept. 11 and what followed definitely changed my attitude about why we serve," he said. "We're a nation at war now." That war, Chief Omdal said, has reinforced his belief in the importance of Airmen's contributions. Deployed one year ago to Iraq when he was a member of security forces, Chief Omdal said the work he performed over there - helping the Army with detainee operations and training Iraqi correction officers - was the highlight of his career. "It was great to be able to go over there and see some of the benefits and results, that we were really making a difference," he said. Still, when it came time to decide whether to re-enlist, Chief Omdal said he took his time and made sure to consult his family - something he encourages all Airmen to do. Ultimately, he said, the decision has to be an educated one, and it has to be about more than just dollars and cents. "Decisions aren't always based on how much money you can make on the outside," he said, "but what gives you satisfaction." For Chief Omdal, right now, that's serving in the Air Force. "There's no greater dream for me than to serve in the Air Force," he said. "I'll retire eventually, but as long as I believe and get feedback that I'm making a difference in our Airmen's lives, then I will continue to serve."