Liberty Spotlight: Tech. Sgt. Renkosiak Published Jan. 22, 2015 By 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Name and Rank: Tech. Sgt. Matthew Renkosiak Unit: 48th Operations Support Squadron Duty Title: NCO in charge of mission integration function Time in Service: 10 years Time at RAF Lakenheath: 2 years, 6 months Hometown: Chicago Hobbies: Traveling Core Values Portrayed: Service Before Self and Excellence In All We Do How does the individual portray these core values? Renkosiak was submitted for a Liberty Spotlight by Master Sgt. Matthew Mitchell, 48th OSS weather flight chief. According to Mitchell, Renkosiak has been instrumental in the weather flight's ability to provide world-class weather support to the 48th Fighter Wing. He routinely puts in the extra effort by coming in early or staying late to ensure operators receive the most accurate and timely weather briefs. Additionally, he provided the weather brief for the 493rd Fighter Squadron's trans-oceanic flight to the Red Flag 15-1 exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada. He specifically pinpointed the optimum departure date and prevented a multiple-day mission postponement by identifying and highlighting to leadership deteriorating weather conditions over the Atlantic Ocean. Why did you join the Air Force? The Air Force was the quickest path for me to become a weather forecaster, which, for some reason, has always been my passion. Seeing the world in the process was an added benefit. How does your job support the mission of the 48th Fighter Wing? As the NCOIC of the mission integration function, my job is to streamline weather support to the flying squadrons of the 48th Fighter Wing. I create and tailor the products the weather flight utilizes based on mission requirements. Ultimately, this ensures our flying units receive the most timely, accurate and relevant weather support in all of U.S. Air Forces in Europe. What is your favorite part of your job? My favorite part is being a large player in making missions happen. It's not every day that happens, but weather can play a large part in mission success. What drives you as an Airman? First and foremost is my family; they mean the world to me. Second, are all of my brothers and sisters in arms; the support and mentorship we provide each other is priceless. What skills do you possess that set you apart from others? I always try to crack a joke or see the positive side of things. There's enough negativity in the world, and I try my best not to add to it. What has been your favorite place to travel in England/Europe, or where would you like to travel to? I've been lucky enough to go on temporary duty to Norway, Lithuania and Germany over the past year; however, my favorite location so far has been Bruges, Belgium. Between the beer, the architecture and the people, Bruges remains my number one!