100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
3/2/2015 - RAF MILDENHALL, England -- Everyone who joins the Air Force may have a different reason to do so, but the new life they receive could allow new Airmen endless possibilities.
For Airman 1st Class Daniel Lingefelt, 100th Logistics Readiness Squadron Fuels fixed facilities journeyman from Pendleton, South Carolina, it was because he wanted a fresh start.
"My main reason for joining was to get me out of my hometown; I chose the fastest career field that would do just that," he stated.
He said his work is rewarding, but certain aspects can be challenging.
"The most challenging part of the job is the administration side of things -- (completing) paperwork and requirements for going to school," the South Carolina native said.
He said he knows paperwork is a valuable part of his work. The paperwork ensures safety guidelines are followed to the letter, and that any problems are recorded and improved upon.
He also sees how his work ensures the aircraft have a quick turn-around and are back in the air assisting NATO allies when they are needed.
"We check out our fuels systems daily to make sure there are no fire hazards, that they are clean and are fully operational," the specialist explained. "We also make sure we have sufficient fuel stock where we need it, so we're able to provide quick and sufficient support to aircraft. It can take around 30 to 45 minutes to fuel a plane (or it can take several hours), depending on the fuel request."
Teamwork is what it takes to ensure the aircraft are always mission-ready, which is what Lingefelt enjoys most about his job.
"The aspect I enjoy most about my job is the people. I love coming to work and hanging out with these guys," he added.
Lingefelt is just a normal young man from South Carolina.
"I like to play video games and just about every sport I can do," he said.
But his career choice has meant that with hard work and dedication, he is able to keep his nation's vital pilots airborne to defend their country. His seemingly behind the scenes role in that mission has not gone unnoticed by wing leadership.
"My highlight was getting coined by Col. Bibb (Col. Kenneth T. Bibb Jr., 100th Air Refueling Wing commander)," Lingefelt said proudly. "We had the opportunity to brief the commander on our daily operations at our cryogenic facility."
Lingefelt's supervisors trusted the young Airman to brief leadership because of the knowledge and skill he displays each and every day while at work.
"Anything I ask of him, he accomplishes," said Staff Sgt. Dakota Ferris, 100th LRS fixed facility supervisor from Mackinaw City, Michigan. "He is very good at time management and a great guy to have around."
Lingefelt is glad to be assigned to RAF Mildenhall and hopes to be serving his country for many years to come.
"I wouldn't want to do anything else," he stated proudly.
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