One step closer to space

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class James L. Miller
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  When most people look up at night they just see stars, but when Airman 1st Class Fabian Miranda-Corpuz looks up, he sees an infinite amount of unexplored space.

Space has always been a dream of his, but until recently it was a dream that was in another galaxy.

Miranda-Corpuz, a budget analyst for the 28th Comptroller Squadron, was recently accepted into the Airman Scholarships and Commissioning Program.

The ASCP offers active duty enlisted personnel the opportunity to earn a commission as an Air Force reserve officer training corps cadet; those selected separate from the active duty Air Force and become a full-time college student.

"I couldn't believe it when I got the email, I think I read it 30 times before I believed it," Miranda-Corpuz said.

He plans on studying aerospace engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology near his hometown of Chicago.

"Going to school close to home will help ease the transition into school," Miranda-Corpuz. "My family is my greatest support system."

After completing school, Miranda-Corpuz hopes to get a career working in space, or working on planes that are going to space.

"My dreams of being an astronaut might not come true," Miranda-Corpuz said. "But the Air Force has taught me the people that support the pilots and aircraft are just as important to the mission."

The soon to be second lieutenant may not have been here for very long, but he has still made a positive impact in his workplace.

"He was and always will be a valued member of our team here at Ellsworth [AFB]," said Senior Master Sgt. Kimberly Weiss, 28th CPTS superintendent. "The effort he put into improving the shop showed that he is ready to take the next step in leadership by commissioning."

Miranda-Corpuz has been active in his office and the community, leading by example. He has won three squadron awards for his outstanding work and is also the physical training leader for his office.

During his off-duty hours, he volunteers as a "Big Brother" for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Although she may not directly monitor his work progress, even his commander took note of his accomplishments leading to his acceptance into the program.

"I think it is awesome that he was accepted," said Maj. Lisa Scott, 28th CPTS commander. "I had a feeling before we even sent his package in that he would be accepted; he is going to go on and do great things no matter where he goes."

With support from his military family and his loved ones back home, Miranda-Corpuz is ready to take the next step in his journey to space.

"It won't be easy leaving all the friends I've made here, but I'll see them all again," Miranda-Corpuz said. "Even if it might be from the window of a spacecraft."