Aircraft Structural Maintenance journeyman demonstrates Core Values

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ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, Engalnd --  

Name and Rank: Airman 1st Class Ruben Gonzalez

Unit: 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron

Unit Commander: Maj. Andrew M. Garcia

Duty Title: Aircraft Structural Maintenance journeyman

Time in Service: 2 years and 2 months

Time at Lakenheath: 1 year and 7 months

Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.

Hobbies: Golfing and basketball

Core Value Portrayed: Airman Gonzalez constantly portrays all three core values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.

How does the individual portray that core value?
Airman Gonzalez is one of our up and coming Airmen. He has learned all aspects of the aircraft structural maintenance career field and completed his upgrade training ahead of his peers. He has consistently displayed a high level of initiative to learn the job and get involved in every task at hand. He has become one of our most well-rounded and dependable mechanics. His sacrifices are immeasurable. He has never hesitated to volunteer for extra shifts or work the weekend. Airman Gonzalez's work ethic is outstanding and his quality of work is comparable to that of any seasoned mechanic. He has proved himself to be a valuable and irreplaceable asset to the RAF Lakenheath Structural Maintenance shop and the 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?
Serving the Air Force has given me a sense of purpose. It has also made me more responsible as an individual. The Air Force has also given me the chance to provide and maintain a well-balanced life for my family.

What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of?
The accomplishment I am most proud of in my young Air Force career is having worked hard and proved my worth to be selected to deploy to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

What are your personal and/or professional goals?
My personal goals are to get my teaching degree and to be a great role model to children. I believe you are never too old to achieve your dreams.

What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is the satisfaction of performing the actual aircraft maintenance, knowing the hard work directly supports the war efforts here at home and abroad.