Explosive ordnance disposal technician displays “Excellence in All We Do”

  • Published
  • By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  

Name and Rank: Senior Airman Jeffrey Butera

Unit: 48th Civil Engineer Squadron

Duty Title: Explosive ordnance disposal technician

Time in Service: 4 years

Time at Lakenheath: 1 year, 10 months

Hometown: St. Louis

Hobbies: Playing music and fixing computers

Core Value Portrayed: "Excellence in All We Do"

How does the individual portray that core value?

Butera's diligence, commitment and unwavering devotion to his professional duties resonates loudly among his EOD peers and leaders. In his time here at Lakenheath, he quickly established himself as an irreplaceable asset to the EOD flight, and through his distinguished performance of his duties, he is easily regarded as one of our best.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?

Serving as an Airman has given me a greater sense of the teamwork that is required to complete the monumental task given to us, as an EOD technician.

What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of?

I filled a noncommissioned officer position as an Airman 1st Class and Senior Airman during a combined unit inspection, leading to an overall outstanding. With the help from my leadership, I ran a section allotted for a minimum of three personnel. During this time, I helped inspect and inventory 1,100 items for serviceability while maintaining all equipment for mission readiness.

What are your personal and/or professional goals?

My goal is to become as technically proficient as possible. Keeping ahead of trends requires constant training and a fluid knowledge-base with which to make informed decisions. In my off-time, I am always trying to further my education -- moving forward with a bachelor's degree while continually balancing family life and fatherhood.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Being part of a team that can accomplish extraordinary things is important to me. With any position I may be filling, being a part of a team which supports the mission, directly or indirectly, is incredibly fulfilling.