Dental Assistant is commander's wingman of choice

  • Published
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Marta Garcia, 82nd Dental Squadron dental assistant, is Brig. Gen. Michael Fantini's "Wingman of Choice" for the week of Aug. 26. Garcia has worked at Sheppard for nearly 14 years and grew up as an "Air Force brat." 

The 82nd Training Wing commander's "Wingman of Choice" award program is the commander's way of acknowledging Airmen for a job well done and to recognize Airmen who exemplify the Air Force core values. Criteria for consideration include outstanding duty performance, community involvement and exemplary leadership.

Family: Daughters Ashley & Julia, Son-in-Laws Zachariah & Keenan

Education: Vernon Junior College, certificate in Administrative Assistant

Inspiration: God, faith and family. She is inspired by her parents, Jose and Carmen Garcia.

Future goals: To earn a grade increase to GS-06 or GS-07.

Greatest accomplishment: Her daughters Ashley & Julia. Being the NCOIC of the dental residency program and being the 82nd Training Wing Civilian of the Year for 2009 and 2010.

Hobbies, off-duty interests: Church, traveling and taking photographs.

Why is this person the Wingman of Choice? "Ms. Garcia is a vital team member of the 82nd Dental Squadron and team sheppard. Over the last several years she has been intimately involved with the dental residency program and contributed greatly to the success of the program. She has helped mold many young enlisted dental assistants as well as brand new Air Force dentists through teaching and mentorship. Through her efforts, this year's dental residents provided the highest amount of dental services in more than 10 years at a staggering $1.46 million. She has gone above and beyond in every aspect of her job."

Commander's comments: According to Col. Phillip Portera, 82nd DS commander, "Marta is a model employee and team member that gets it! She knows what is important and focuses her efforts on making our organization a great place to be part of and can be relied on to complete any assigned duties. Marta always goes way above and beyond and is extremely deserving of this recognition."