Addie McCluskey

Elmore Autauga News

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jenny Kim may have come from thousands of miles away, but she has quickly become a familiar face across Elmore County.

Originally from a small town in Alaska, Kim was recently assigned to Maxwell Air Force Base as a recruiter. While she had the option of military housing or living closer to her duty station, she chose something different — a home in Deatsville. Drawn to the area’s rural charm and welcoming atmosphere, Kim said she felt at home here, wanting to help residents discover opportunities she had once not considered.

“I joined the Air Force at 27 years old, almost 10 years ago now,” said Kim. “I was a single mom, and I was completely lost at that time, living paycheck to paycheck. I wanted a better life for my daughter and me.”

That decision, she said, ended up changing the course of her life. From steady income and world travel to advanced training and a strong support system, Kim found not just a career but a community. She now shares her story with the hope of inspiring others who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of their next step.

Across the county, she speaks with high school students planning their futures, parents seeking stability for their families, and adults searching for a fresh start. No matter who she meets, she explains the wide range of opportunities the Air Force offers, including:

Options to serve part-time or full-time
30 days of paid vacation each year
Access to advanced training in aviation, technology, medical careers, and more
Clear career paths and leadership development
Tuition assistance and GI Bill education benefits
Comprehensive medical and dental coverage for families
Competitive pay and bonuses
Chances to travel and live around the world
A strong retirement system with a Thrift Savings Plan similar to a 401(k)

Though her message is full of information, what resonates most with the people she meets is her honesty about where she started and how far she’s come.

“I usually tell people that if I can do it, they can do it as well,” she said. “It’s never too late to invest in your future.”

For more information about the Air Force, visit https://aha.cce.af.mil/lead/recruiter/eef69ec1-0438-489e-a6cb-37c038e65ea0.