Aviano's Finest - U.S. Civilian Category

  • Published
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Name: Elizabeth Mesa

Unit: 731st Munitions Squadron

Duty Title: Mail Clerk

How long have you worked for the military? Two and a half years

Hometown City, State and/or Country: Phoenix, Ariz.

How do you support the 31st Fighter Wing mission?
I am a mail clerk for the 731st MUNS, which is a geographically separated unit of the 31st Fighter Wing. I provide daily mail service and ensure Airmen and Soldiers receive their packages in a timely manner as I know how important it is to receive letters from home.

What's one thing you've learned about Italy's history, people and culture?
Italy is a very warm and welcoming country. The people here are gracious hosts and always willing to teach Americans the language and how to cook "authentic foods." The culture I have learned is very similar to the Hispanic culture in that they are very family oriented and live very modestly.

What's one advantage of being stationed overseas?
I appreciate that my family and I are afforded the opportunity to reside in a non-violent environment for which I am extremely grateful.

What's your favorite European destination and why?
Venice, Italy. I love the Gondola rides along the Grand Canal and the picturesque cobblestone alleyways.

Why I nominated Mrs. Mesa as one of Aviano's Finest?
"Liz has one of the most important jobs on Camp Darby; distributing mail. On the surface, it sounds like a fairly easy job; however, when you consider that many of us shop online, the volume of mail can become overwhelming, especially around the holiday season. No matter the circumstances, Liz is always courteous and professional and her "can do" attitude fits perfectly into our joint operations here." - Chief Master Sgt. Erick Hays, 731 MUNS superintendent