Tech. Sgt. Bernardo Zuleta, 460th Operations Support Squadron

  • Published
Tech. Sgt. Bernardo from the 460th Operations Support Squadron is the star performer for the week of Feb. 2 to Feb. 8.

Time in Service: 16 years

Duty Title: Client support administrator

Hometown: Paterson, N.J., originally from Medellin, Colombia

Hobbies: Reading, soccer, X-Box, painting and drawing

How do your day-to-day duties contribute to mission success?
I perform information management functions and activities for the 460th Operations Support Squadron. I keep the squadron's computer systems up and running ensuring mission accomplishment with no down time. My career field is designed to enable the end users and, hopefully, through technology, our users can rapidly collect, process and distribute information. In today's information and computer age, system reliability is essential to information superiority and, from it, military superiority.

If you could change one thing about the Air Force what would it be?
I understand the need for us to be in Iraq, but I would like all of our Airmen home, safe and sound.

What has been your most memorable experience in the Air Force?
Working with the 24th Wing at Howard Air Force Base, in Panama. Panama was one of the most wonderful places I have ever been. The beaches, food and culture were all fantastic. When the Panama Canal treaty expired, I was part of the base closure team. We moved people and equipment off the base in preparation to turn it over to the Panamanian government. I learned a lot!

Duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments:
I'm responsible for $125,000 worth of computer equipment in the squadron and provide administrative management for the commander, director of operations and first sergeant.

From 2003 to 2004 I was assigned to Joint Task Force Bravo in Honduras. The first part of my tour I was the Spanish interpreter assisting Honduran contractors. I later volunteered to be part of a medical assistance team, which provided needed medical support to rural Honduras.

Later in 2004, I arrived at Buckley just in time to assist with the stand up of the 460th Operations Group and the 460th Operations Support Squadron. I'm a member of the Buckley Multi-Cultural Committee, where I donate time to feed the homeless and help with many local charities.