MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Senior Airman Freddy Scott, a 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron petroleum, oils and lubricants flight fuels accountant, was once an Airman 1st Class at MacDill Air Force Base, ready for a promising career. However, he was in for a rude awakening.
After leaving a party, driving through the base, it happened. Flickers of blue and red filled the cabin of his car from security forces pulling him over.
As he was pulled over, he realized he was going to have to admit his reality, he was drinking and driving, and to make matters worse, he was underage.
At the time, Scott didn’t know what he was about to embark on, but he knew it was going to be an uphill battle.
“I received an article 15 and lost a stripe,” said Scott. “It led me to where I am today though because I used that situation as a learning opportunity.”
Scott knew afterwards that he had to make a change in how he made decisions.
His experience didn’t bring him down or take him to a dark place, it only took him on a journey that would present a picture of success and opportunity to others who have also made bad decisions.
“I left MacDill to go to Osan Air Base, knowing that I had to put the past behind me,” he added. “I was newly married and knew I loved my job. This was my opportunity to prove myself.”
After getting to Osan, Scott decided this was his time to do just that. So he took advantage of every opportunity in front of him. With great mentorship, and a new attitude he made the most of his opportunity.
Scott was awarded Airman of the Year during his tour at Osan, AB.
“I knew I could do it because my superintendent had my back,” Scott said. “I worked hard [and] I followed his advice, and did my job.”
After a year in Korea, Scott felt that his experience was worth it, even though he didn’t volunteer for the Korea assignment, he knows the assignment helped him grow.
His follow-on assignment led him back to MacDill, where he started his Air Force journey off on the wrong foot.
He didn’t know what he was coming back to, but he knew he had to make amends for his past deeds.
“When I came home, it was up to me to show leadership that I wasn’t the same person that my record reflected,” Scott said.”
Today, at MacDill, he has made a remarkable recovery.
“He is one of our best Airmen,” said 1st Lt. John Jacob, the 6th LRS POL flight commander. “He has performed and shown his worth! His work ethic drive and dedication speaks for itself”.
Overcoming adversity was the hardest part Scott added, it’s not what you’ve been through, but how you get through it.