Christina Annen, a native of Wichita, Kansas, embarked on a remarkable journey of military service that led her to meet her future husband, Mark Annen, in the most unexpected of places—Galena, Alaska.
A Calling to Serve
- Background: Graduated from East High School in 1985, Christina felt a deep-seated desire to serve her country.
- Decision to Join the Air Force: Coming from a family with a rich military tradition, she viewed the military as a gateway to explore the world and be part of a community.
- Branch Selection: Opting for the Air Force was influenced by practical considerations, including the physical requirements of basic training and her affinity for the color blue.
Breaking Barriers in Avionics
- Training and Role: After basic training, Christina trained as an avionics guidance and control systems technician, working on critical flight instruments.
- Assignments: Her career took her to Oklahoma, maintaining AWACS aircraft, and later to the Philippines, working on F-4 fighter jets.
- Challenges: She faced significant sexism in a male-dominated field, where being average could lead to negative stereotypes.
A New Path in Alaska
- Transition: Seeking a change from the challenging work environment, Christina transferred to the postal unit, leading to a posting in Galena, Alaska.
- First Impressions: Arriving at 10 p.m. to perpetual daylight, she was struck by the unique environment of the remote outpost.
Meeting Mark Annen
- Serendipitous Encounter: In Galena, Christina met Mark Annen, a fellow Air Force member. Their shared faith and immediate connection were profound.
- Intuitive Connection: Christina sensed a deep bond, feeling an inner voice tell her that Mark was the person she was meant to marry.
Christina Annen’s journey from Wichita to Alaska highlights the profound ways in which military service can shape lives, forge unexpected connections, and lead to enduring partnerships.
Her story serves as a testament to resilience, faith, and the serendipitous paths life often presents.