SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --
Airman 1st Class Melissa Pawlak, 82nd
Medical Support Squadron laboratory technician and native of Oak Lawn, Illinois
has been in the Air Force for two years and is the commander’s Wingman of Choice at
Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, for the week of Mar. 3-9, 2016.
“My family is always my
inspiration,” Pawlak said. “I know they will be proud of any accomplishment I
achieve, little or life changing. My goal is to go to medical school to become
an anesthesiologist. Joining the Air Force has allowed me to continue my
education and is getting me closer to my anesthetist dream.”
Pawlak was chosen as the Wingman
of Choice because she performed well above her current rank. The laboratory work force was reduced by 40
percent over the last year. In six months as a permanent party member she has:
progressed rapidly through her bench lab technician training, assisted the Medical
Group patient advocate with processing customer service surveys, volunteered to
help process applicants during the weekly Air Force Sergeants Association Airman
in Training drive, and modified front desk procedures that directly led to the
lab’s 2015 College of American Pathologist accreditation.
Commander’s Comments:
“After initial technical
training, Pawlak attended her Phase II Medical Lab training at Sheppard,” said Lt.
Col. Charles Marek, 82nd MDSS commander. “Upon notification of her staying at
Sheppard after Phase II training, the Medical Lab staff were excited due to her
outstanding technical and professional qualities exuded during training. She
has not disappointed and has become an awesome, dedicated member of the flight,
squadron, and group. Pawlak’s positive and cheerful attitude have garnered her
numerous kudos from patients and staff alike. Pawlak is a shining example of
the outstanding Airman that continue to join our Air Force.”