KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, NM. -- For Airman First Class Devon Barrett, the path to the Air Force was anything but straight. His story is shaped by instability, resilience, and a steady decision to choose something better than what surrounded him.
Barrett spent much of his childhood bouncing between homes and cities. That constant movement finally slowed when he was 13, after his mother remarried and his family settled in Michigan. Stability helped, but the environment around him still carried heavy influences. Many of his peers were caught in cycles of crime and violence. Some ended up in prison and others lost their lives.
“I saw where that life led statistically,” Barrett said. “And I knew that's not what I wanted for my future and wanted to make a change.”
Recognizing the dangers around him, his mom and stepdad enrolled him in private school, hoping to give him a safer environment. Instead, Barrett found himself facing new challenges. As a multi-racial student, he found that his diverse heritage was not always accepted. Still, he stayed true to himself and focused on self-improvement.
Football became his way forward, earning him an opportunity to compete in college as a walk-on. He later transferred to another university in Utah, determined to continue both his education and athletics. Then, financial reality set in quickly. Lacking financial aid assistance, Barrett had to work constantly just to stay afloat, including the night shift at a juvenile rehabilitation facility. He picked up jobs in roofing, plumbing, and other trade work, doing whatever he could to cover his living and school expenses.
Eventually, the balance became overwhelming and he was forced to drop out of school.
Between the ages of 19 and 23, Barrett experienced the struggles of homelessness while having to live out of his car. The longest stretch lasting an entire year. When he wasn’t sleeping in his car, he relied on couches, spare rooms, and the charity of others.
“I was blessed with people who understood I was doing my best to survive,” he said. “I was simply trying to make a way.”
At 23, he moved back in with his mom and began rebuilding again. He worked as a plumber during the day and as a bartender at night. Around that time, he discovered jiu-jitsu, which became more than just a hobby. It gave him structure, discipline, and a mental outlet he hadn’t had before. He also re-enrolled in school online, determined to complete his education.
Even then, Barrett felt that something was still missing.
For years, joining the military had lingered in the back of his mind. Barrett wrestled with doubts as to whether he could adapt to the military lifestyle. He wasn't sure if he truly knew what he wanted to do. At the same time, he felt a growing desire to serve something bigger than himself.
“I constantly asked myself what can I do for my country,” Barrett said. “My desire is to be an asset rather than a liability in the efforts to defend freedom, here at home and globally.”
When he decided to take the leap, the process didn’t come easily. Barrett was medically disqualified and waited six months for the surgeon general to overturn the disqualification. After clearing that hurdle, he initially aimed for a career in cyber warfare, but no positions were available at the time. Rather than walk away, he chose a role where he knew he could immediately contribute, aircraft maintenance.
In 2023, Barrett enlisted in the Air Force. He graduated from basic military training in 2024 at the top of his class, completed technical school, and was assigned to the 73rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit, 58th Special Operations Wing, where he has served ever since.
Now, stability looks very different. Barrett is finishing degrees in applied artificial intelligence as well as computer and electrical engineering. His long-term goal is to commission as a cyberspace warfare operations officer.
While focused on the future, he takes pride in how he serves today. Barrett volunteered to work the night shift in maintenance, not for recognition, but to demonstrate commitment and set an example for those around him.
That mindset extends beyond the flight line. Barrett is constantly seeking ways to learn, grow, and lead by example. He also carries a strong sense of responsibility to his family, especially those still living in the same circumstances he once did.
“I hope they view my journey as an example of success that can come through simple sacrifice,” he said.
From homelessness to the hangar floor, Barrett’s journey reflects perseverance and purpose. His story is a reminder that the Air Force is made stronger by Airmen who bring with them not just skill, but hard-earned perspective. A determination to build something better than what they were given. Thank you, A1C Barrett, for your perseverance and leading by example!