Aviano's Finest - Italian Civlian Category

  • Published
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Name: Elena Iacono Quarantino

Unit: 731st Munitions Squadron

Duty Title: Language assistant

How long have you worked at Aviano Air Base: Eight years

Name of town/city and Italian province you are from: Fauglia, Pisa

How do you support the 31st Fighter Wing mission?
I act as a liaison with the host nation installation commander and perform translation duties with off-base agencies, contractors and vendors on behalf of 731st MUNS. I am the "go to" person for distinguished visitor visits, conferences, and on- and off-base unit functions. I am the sole point of contact for 16 U.S. Air Force civilian positions scattered throughout the host garrison. I keep the commander informed of the civilians' individual needs, job performance and organize recognition and incentive awards. I provide nonstop support to the squadron in areas such as legal issues, utility bills, car problems and wedding paper completion.

What's one thing you've learned about America's history, people and culture?
I've learned that America is a country of freedom and choices. Also, whatever seems impossible, can become possible.

What's one advantage of working with Americans?
The advantage is being able to work together as one international team. There are cultural differences between American and Europeans such as attitudes, expectations and styles of teamwork, but I like the American colleague approach to teamwork and the idea of "team spirit". I think Americans and Europeans work great together when it comes to defining roles and responsibilities of each contributor, effective teamwork and most importantly -- setting clear goals and achieving the mission as one team.

What's your favorite European destination and why?
Every single country has something unique to offer, but the boot-shaped country throws surprises and exciting emotions at you. Italy's enduring appeal is easy to explain. Rome's martial monuments, Florence's Renaissance glories and Venice's enchanting and magic atmosphere are all well known, but they are just the beginning of what Italy has to offer. There are so many beautiful areas to visit, with unique landscapes, fantastic ruins, some of the best museums in the world, friendly people, and food to die for. Alongside Italy's art treasures, you'll find plenty to keep you busy in the countryside. There are wonderful adventures ranging from the Lake District in Northern Italy, to Tuscany and Umbria, to the amazing Amalfi Coast and the beautiful islands. You can ski in the Alps, hike the Dolomites or dive off Sardinia's golden coast. Adrenaline junkies can catch fireworks on Sicily's volatile volcanoes. Everything you feel in Northern Italy will be amplified in Southern Italy, so while it's not trip to be taken without consideration, it's a trip you'll remember forever.

Why I nominated Elena Iacono Quarantino as one of Aviano's Finest?
"Simply put, Elena's support ensures our success. Her contributions have led to consecutive U.S. Air Forces in Europe Maintenance Effectiveness awards and she also played a very important part in our 2009 Secretary of Defense Award for Maintenance Excellence. Her ability to blend cultures is key to our operations in Southern Italy." - Chief Master Sgt. Erick Hays, 731st MUNS superintendent