Aviano's Finest - Military Category

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AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Name/Rank: Tech.Sgt. Sergio Sanchez 

Unit: 555th Fighter Squadron 

Duty Title: 555FS NCO in charge of Squadron Aviation Resource Management 

How long have you been in the military: 12 years 

Hometown City: Santa Maria, Calif. 

How do you support the 31st Fighter Wing mission?
I support 31st FW flying operations by coordinating radio communication between the maintenance operations center, pilots, air traffic control and airfield management. This ensures pilots have adequate airspace availability, ground and air support. In addition, I ensure flight personnel are medically qualified, combat mission ready and ground training qualified prior to authorizing their mission sortie. 

What's one thing you've learned about Italy's history, people and culture?
Italy has a long history span, from the time when Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus, to the world renowned Roman Empire and then to the contemporary Italian Republic.

What's one advantage of being stationed overseas?
The main advantage of being overseas is the opportunity to experience other countries' cultures, the food and peoples' everyday way of life.

What's your favorite European destination and why?
Italy is my favorite European destination; most every urban town has something of its own, but at the same time they share many similarities with each other; such as Verona, Trieste, Luca and Milan. What's more, the Basilicas, Cathedrals and Plaza squares, though they are located in different cities throughout the country, have a parallel history and architecture. As a result, Italy becomes the European country of choice. Whether it's for visit, for studying or even passing through, Italy will surely have something you like and enjoy.

Why Sergeant Sanchez was nominated as one of Aviano's Finest.
"Sergeant Sanchez has quickly become a vital part of the 555th Fighter Squadron team. Arriving less than six months ago, he immediately integrated himself as NCO in charge of squadron aviation resource management and hit the ground running! He is responsible for much of the day-to-day operations behind the $46 million flying hour program. Sergeant Sanchez has proven himself indispensible in accomplishing the wing's mission. A hands on leader producing high level results from himself and his Airmen, Sergeant Sanchez truly is one of Aviano's finest! "