Square D Spotlight: Staff Sgt. David Rodriguez

  • Published
  • By 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  

Name and Rank: David Rodriguez, Staff Sgt.

Unit: 100th Air Refueling Wing Inspector General Office

Duty Title: Wing Exercises NCO in charge

Time in Service: 7 years, 4 months

Time at Mildenhall: 5 years

Hometown: Covina, Calif.

Hobbies: Playing guitar, writing and traveling

Core Value Portrayed: "Excellence in All We Do"

How does the individual portray that core value?
"Staff Sgt. Rodriguez displays excellence in everything he does on and off duty while managing the 100th Air Refueling Wing's exercise program," Master Sgt. Max Morkin, 100th ARW chief of complaints said. "In this role, Rodriguez developed the installation readiness inspection program leading up to the wing's first Unit Effectiveness Inspection as part of the new Air Force inspection system. He planned seven base-wide emergency management exercises and acted as team-lead on five squadron inspections as a member of the Wing Inspection Team. Additionally, he integrated RAF Mildenhall to the national exercise system by incorporating Department of Homeland Security exercise procedures and terminology. His efforts led to an overall "Excellent" rating on the UEI and selection as a "Superior Performer" by the United States Air Forces in Europe Inspector General. During his off-duty time, Rodriguez is actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Emergency Management and volunteers his expertise with the British Red Cross as a major event first aid technician.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?
Serving in the Air Force is important because our Air Force is the best in the world. It brings honor to my family and affords me the opportunity to learn more about Emergency Management from a military perspective.

What accomplishment during your Air Force career are you most proud of?
Early on in my career, I went through the first Air Force Hazardous Material Technician training at the Army's facility in Missouri. Everyone was nervous because the other services had a 40 percent fail rate but our career and major command managers all pledged the Air Force would not fail. We all rocked the course and came through with a 100% pass rate. That reminds me of how effective Airmen working together can be.

What are your personal and/or professional goals?
I want to lead a flight of emergency managers if I reach the rank of technical sergeant. I'll have to move back to the states, but the challenge will be worth it. I would also like to finish the book I'm writing. I recently met my word count goal and now it's in the editing process.

What is your favorite part of your job?
I enjoy the opportunity to help plan exercises. Getting to meet and work with different subject matter experts from the wing and partner units has been incredible. Most of them are senior NCOs and officers chosen for their knowledge and experience; they have a lot to teach and I have a lot to learn, so it's a good match.