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Like father, like son: Father-son duo happened to be stationed together at Scott

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Fresh from basic training, Airman 1st Class Terry Carter III had a lot of options for duty assignments, so when he showed up at Scott Air Force Base, no one was more surprised than his dad--who's also assigned here on active duty.

"Scott AFB was No. 5 on my dream sheet," said the 19-year-old Airman who's assigned to the 375th Communications Squadron. "I knew with my career field that getting stationed together (with my dad) was a major possibility, but I didn't think it would happen right away. It works out because I always have someone to answer my questions."

Proud dad and vehicle fleet manager for the 375th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Master Sgt. Terry Carter, age 41, said he's happy to have his son and daughter-in-law so close.

Also close by are the communications and logistic squadrons which are located across the street from each other, so they often eat lunch together during the week, and during their off-duty time, they go fishing, work on vehicles or play video games and cards.

"I'm also extra lucky because he helps me with any of my computer issues," said Sergeant Carter, a 21-year veteran.

Spending time together also means working on volunteer projects such as building a wheelchair ramp for a local charity.

Airman Carter explained, "My dad supports me and backs up my decisions; he helps me look at what paths I should be taking, and doing volunteer work is one way to give back."

Airman Carter joined the Air Force due to the sage advice of his father who served for six years as a recruiter.

"I originally wanted to join the Marine Corps, but all of my dad's lectures sank in, and so here I am," said the Eastern Missouri native. "I'm happy with the decision I made."

His said his dad continues to pass on plenty of sage advice, to which Sergeant Carter explained, "I look back and pass on what I wish I had done in my career. I tell him to study, because if you don't study then that means it's a missed opportunity for promotion, get a degree or become an officer if he chooses. I'm so proud of him, and it's been awesome to see him mature from high school to today."

Both Carters are not sure how much longer they will be stationed together. Airman Carter, who's coming up on his second year here, knows that he has many assignments ahead. Sergeant Carter, who has also been here for two years, knows that if he makes rank, he will need to move where there's a position for him. The one thing they do know is they are going to enjoy the time they have together.

"Last weekend we went to a boat show and this week we are going to Louisiana to go fishing," said Sergeant Carter. "If he's still here in June and can take leave, we are going to Oklahoma to go fishing. Everything happens for a reason so we'll just go with the flow."