Commander's Wingman of Choice: Battaglino

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SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Mike Battaglino, 362nd Training Squadron C-135 instructor and native of Avon, Conn., served in the Air Force for nine years and has served two years in civil service. Battaglino is the commander's Wingman of Choice at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, for the week of Nov. 10-16, 2015. Battaglino is responsible for teaching students the fundamentals of aircraft engines, inspection concepts, aircraft utilities, fuel systems, and airframe/egress systems on the C-135 Stratotanker.

Battaglino's greatest accomplishment is getting married to his wife, Crystal and he enjoys competing in strongman and powerlifting, eating quality food and reading. His education includes a master's degree in Space Education, a master's degree in Aeronautical Science and a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics, all from Embry Riddle. His goals are to one day start a family, become a professional strongman and complete a PhD.

"Mr. Battaglino is an outstanding civilian instructor who continues to embrace the Core Values," said Maj. Anthony Vieira, 362nd TRS commander. "He produced 37 C-135 graduates, which earned them 777 Community College of the Air Force credit hours. As a result, he received the 2014 Air Education Training Command Civilian Instructor of the Year Award. He excels at inspiring our Airmen by his example. He is an 82 TRW Master Resiliency Trainer and has educated more than 100 people in life management skills. Mike is a selfless individual; he pulled a fire truck to raise more than $3,000 for a disabled mentor, he has led cancer awareness events by raising $1,500 for local citizens, and was the 362nd TRS blood drive representative. His efforts led to the collection of 721 pints of blood, exceeding the wing's goal by 22 percent."

"Mike was my nomination for the 362nd TRS Outstanding Civilian Employee of the Year. He always leads from the front, and is truly a Wingman of Choice," said Vieira.