Military training leader selected to attend scholarship and commissioning program

Published Feb. 3, 2011
By Susan Griggs
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Staff Sgt. Melissa Keith, a military training leader in the 336th Training Squadron, has been selected for the Airman Scholarship and Commissioning Program.

Sergeant Keith enlisted in 2002 and arrived at Keesler 1½ years ago. She's pursuing a computer science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

ASCP offers active duty enlisted personnel the opportunity to earn a commission while completing their bachelor's degree as an Air Force ROTC cadet.

Those selected separate from the active-duty Air Force, join an Air Force ROTC detachment and become a full-time college student.

"This program offers me the opportunity to finish my bachelor's degree," said Sergeant Keith, who'll begin the program Aug. 24 as part of the 432nd ROTC Detachment at USM. "The Air Force will be taking care of the tuition and cost of books while I'm in school. Once I graduate, I'll be commissioned as an officer."

Annual boards consider the "whole person" concept to evaluate applicants, including a commander's recommendation and the Airman's duty performance history and academic performance.

"I appreciate all the guidance I have received during my duration in the Air Force," Sergeant Keith said. "I'm grateful for this opportunity, and I'm ready to get started!"