South Burlington, Vt. –
Name: Tech. Sgt. Christopher Brown
Military Specialty: Fire Protection
Years of Service: 9
Unit: 158th Fighter Wing
Hometown: South Burlington
Current Town: Colchester
High School/Graduation Year: 2007
Q. Why did you join the Vermont National Guard?
A. I joined the Vermont Air National Guard as a trial basis with no expectations initially. I knew little what the Guard was or about, only through minimal conversations with family friends who were in the Guard. I figured I would give it a chance and see first-hand what people meant by “The best decision they’ve ever made”. Through the years, I now see exactly what they meant.
Q. What do you do in the Vermont National Guard?
A. I am currently a Technical Sergeant in charge of a Fire Protection Team in the Vermont Air National Guard. I currently supervise five NCOs and Airmen ensuring they receive the proper training and education to further their career along with being a vital asset to the state and country.
Q. What do you do for civilian work?
A. I am a Airport Fire Captain for the State of Vermont at VTANG Fire Department. I work 24 hours on and 48 hours off, supervising a crew of firefighter/EMTs to respond to emergencies on base, at the airport, and the cities around the airport.
Q. What do you think is the greatest benefit of being in the National Guard?
A. The educational benefits you receive while being a part of the Vermont Air Gard and secondly the PAID training you receive while learning the career field you choose. Employers want two things, college degree and “work experience” both will be provided to you in the Vermont Air National Guard.
Q. How has being a National Guard member benefited you in your local community and job?
A. The Vermont Air Guard has allowed me to obtain all of my current Firefighter certifications I have today along with continual training and work experience both here in the state and around the world. This is great especially because all these skills I have learned and obtain transfer over to my volunteer work I do in the town of Colchester as au Firefighter/EMT.
Q. What is your most memorable military moment?
A. Traveling the world and being able to perform you career elsewhere while learning how other places do things. Recently traveling to a location with F-35s and learning the new aircraft preparing for arrival.
Q. How long have you lived in Vermont?
A. Whole life.
Q. What is your favorite aspect of living or working where you do?
A. My favorite part is being a member of the VTANG Fire Department Family which is an extension of the entire base. Being able to work full-time on the base as a Fire Captain and then put on the uniform when asked to defend our great nation.
Q. What has surprised you about the Vermont National Guard?
A. The comradery and the pride of all Vermont National Guard members. VTANG has a rich history dating back to the Green Mountain Boys, and keeping that pride going is very rewarding.
Q. How many push-ups did you get on your last physical fitness test?
A. 60