DUKE FIELD, Fla. -- In today’s operational environment, mission success demands on more than just advanced technology or cutting-edge aircraft. It requires people who are trained and capable of carrying out often very complex tasks.
The Air Force Reserve plays a pivotal role in ensuring America’s ability to fly, fight, and win by recruiting, training, and retaining a ready and lethal force of warriors committed to defending our nation.
The Reserve, whether full-time or part-time, brings a tremendous range of experience to the joint force. That experience is a by-product of a tireless search for the next generation of Citizen Airmen by Recruiters who help turn dreams into reality for men and women who aspire to serve.
“I see people who are motivated, purpose-driven, and looking to be part of something bigger than themselves,” said Master Sgt. Michael Arriaga, 919th Special Operations Wing recruiter. “The ones who gravitate toward the 919th usually want a challenge—they’re not just looking to punch a clock. They want to serve with impact, they want to grow, and they want to belong to a tight-knit, high-performing team.”
For many 919 SOW members, their efforts are tied to a mission that never stops. Readiness isn’t optional, it’s the standard. Through continuous recruiting efforts, the USAFR ensures the pipeline of capable, disciplined, and prepared Airmen never runs dry. Every role filled by a skilled and motivated Reservist strengthens the force and accelerates mission capability. Reservists are a supplemental force, one that can integrate seamlessly and respond at a moment’s notice. Recruiting the right talent today ensures the Wing is ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
“What makes our readiness unique is how much we accomplish with limited time,” said Arriaga. “Our Reservists are balancing jobs, school, and families—and yet when it’s go time, they show up ready to execute. The 919th is a great example. We’re fully embedded in the special operations world, supporting missions like non-standard aviation, and even operating MQ-9s and the AC-130J. We train and perform at a high level alongside our active-duty counterparts, and we’re always ready to answer the call—part-time status doesn’t mean part-time commitment.”
Modern warfare demands agility and precision. The 919th SOW personnel are trained to operate alongside their active-duty counterparts, maintaining the same high standards of lethality and professionalism. an integral part of the total force, sharpening the Air Force’s edge and expanding its reach.
“This might be one of the biggest misconceptions out there—it’s never just one weekend a month,” Arriaga added. “Even when we’re not wearing the uniform, we’re preparing, learning, leading, and staying sharp. A lot of our folks volunteer for TDYs, deployments, and extended orders, and they bring a full-time mindset to a part-time role. Especially in a unit like the 919th, where we’re constantly involved in AFSOC missions with platforms like the AC-130J and MQ-9, there’s nothing ‘casual’ about what we do.”
Joining the reserves isn’t just a career move—it’s a calling. It’s a chance to be part of something greater than yourself. It’s an opportunity to serve alongside the finest warriors in the world, defending freedom at home and abroad. Every successful recruitment is not just a position filled, it’s a future secured, a mission advanced, a nation strengthened.
“If you’re looking for purpose, growth, and a sense of belonging—you’ll find it here,” said Arriaga. “The Air Force Reserve gives you a chance to serve while still chasing your civilian goals. You get real-world skills, education benefits, and a chance to wear the uniform with pride. And if you want to be part of something elite, the 919th is the place. We’re the only special operations wing in the Reserve, and the work we do matters on a global scale. The mission is powerful, and the people are even better.”
Interested in joining the Air Force Reserve? Go to: Air Force Reserve - U.S. Air Force