KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - Staff Sgt. Sara Welch, with the 102nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, Third Infantry Division, is currently serving a tour of duty at Regional Command-South, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, as a public affairs media analyst. Welch, a Hattiesburg, Miss., native, arrived in theatre Jan. 9, 2013.

"My job is fast-paced, all-day, constantly changing, and I'm constantly learning," said Welch. "It's intense, but it's good. It challenges me."

This is Welch's first deployment. Her mission during this tour is to augment 3rd ID with the public affairs mission.

"It's something I wanted to do after 9/11, but I promised myself I'd finish college first," said Welch.

As we begin to celebrate Women's History Month, which highlights the contributions of women to history, society and culture; Welch had a few words of encouragement for women currently serving their country or those looking to serve.

"If you want to join, do it," said Welch. "The military has wonderful opportunities for women and their families."

When Welch returns home, she said she is looking forward to her friends and family, her dog, Molly.