VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Tech. Sgt. Thomas Littlefield with the 71st Security Forces Squadron retired from Air Force active duty during a ceremony held March 17 at the Vance Club.

He received his certificate of retirement from Maj. Christopher Jackson, the 71st SFS commander.

During the ceremony, Littlefield’s wife, Senior Airman Ebony Littlefield, pinned on his retirement lapel pen.

Littlefield spend more than 16 years active duty as a Security Forces Defender.

Why did you join the Air Force?
Littlefield: "My grandfather was in the Air Force. I wanted to serve my country too."

What's your best memory of your first assignment?
Littlefield: "I met my wife at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. I'd get in trouble if I gave a different answer to that! Honestly though, my family started there, and that will always make it special."

What are three reasons you would recommend the Air Force as a career?
Littlefield: “Camaraderie, the chance to see the world and education opportunities.”

What advice would you give an airman or lieutenant just starting their Air Force career?
Littlefield: "Learn from those who came before you. We made it this far for a reason. Don't be afraid to ask us questions or ask for advice. We'd rather you ask questions then mess something up because you were too proud to ask for help, or admit that you didn't know."

What is the biggest change you've witnessed in the Air Force?
Littlefield: "9/11 -- hands down – 9/11. I was just shy of my one-year anniversary in the service when it happened. So many changes after that one event. Changes to security posture, deployments, manpower, equipment and the list just goes on."