Aviano's Finest - U.S. Civilian Category Published Sept. 16, 2009 AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Name: Evan Chiverton Unit: 31st Maintenance Operations Squadron Duty Title: Resource Advisor How long have you worked for the military? 1 year Hometown City, State and/or Country: Alamo, Calif. How do you support the 31st Fighter Wing mission? I support the 31st Fighter Wing mission as a resource advisor. My primary responsibilities are, but are not limited to, assuring our resources are being utilized to their greatest extent, benefitting not only the 31st Fighter Wing but also the U.S. government. I make sure that the funds are being used in an appropriate manner within a timely fashion. It is important to note that this is not an effort on my shoulders alone, but rather a team effort between myself, the finance office and the contracting office. It is the efforts of these men and woman working as a team that allow the rest of the squadron to be successful in their efforts and in the long run allows our jets to fly successfully. What's one thing you've learned about Italy's history, people and culture? Living in Italy has opened my eyes to a great many things that I didn't realize existed before my assignment here. The people are kind, the history is vast and the culture is rich. This combination has allowed me to enjoy many new celebrations with my new Italian friends. I have been accepted into a community where I have not only had the chance to learn and grow, but to experience a lifetime of memories I will keep forever. The Aria di Festa in San Daniele, for example, taught me the history and the actual creation of Prosciutto. Before I came to Italy, I didn't even think of the how and where of Prosciutto, but now, I know and have actually shared with family and friends in the states. What's one advantage of being stationed overseas? One of the best things about having the opportunity to live and work overseas is the access to other cultures. It is so convenient to walk into the center of my town each evening and see all the people out in the square enjoying these great summer nights. I am able to experience true Italian culture every day. All I have to do is look out my window and there it is. This aspect of my life will be missed once I leave. What's your favorite European destination and why? Bled, Slovenia, is my favorite European destination. The town is so beautiful. It was built on the edge of a large lake with a small island in the center. On the island stands a large church that can only be reached by rowboat and overlooking it all is a medieval castle. Another great thing about Bled is the fact that it offers several outdoor activities such as white water rafting, canyoning, and hiking. Why Mr. Chiverton was nominated as one of Aviano's Finest? "Since Mr. Chiverton joined the 31st MOS, he has engaged full throttle on establishing budgeting priorities as well as communicating, balancing and validating squadron requirements against established group priorities. Mr. Chiverton has committed himself to ensure the squadron commander is well aware of all expenditures and commitments being executed on his behalf. Mr. Chiverton has also taken over the government travel card program, becoming an agency program coordinator. His expertise not only ensured that travel vouchers were completed within allotted time, but eradicated GTC delinquencies, saving the government thousands of dollars when the Air Force travel cards were paid on time. Mr. Chiverton has clearly surpassed all expectations, setting higher standards for future resources advisors."