SOUTHWEST ASIA -- This week’s Rock Solid Warrior is Senior Airman Nathanael Burchett, an integrated electronics systems specialist with the 386th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, deployed from Charleston Air National Guard Base, W.Va.
The Rock Solid Warrior program is a way to recognize and spotlight the Airmen of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing for their positive impact and commitment to the mission.
What is your current job title, unit and duties?
I am currently Guidance and Control (GAC). My duties are to maintain the avionics systems on the C-130H.
Which squadron and base are you deployed from?
I am deployed from 130th MXS from the 130th Airlift Wing, West Virginia.
Why did you join the Air Force?
I joined the Air Force to get a chance to work with aircraft. I have always enjoyed flying and working with my hands so it was a good match.
What has your military career been like?
I have been in the Air Force for three years. Overall I have had a good experience. I’ve been through ten countries now and I have learned many things.
How is your deployed unit/job different from your home unit/job?
The biggest difference from here and home would have to be the environment. The extreme heat makes every task much harder, which requires even more detail to be taken on tasks to ensure safety.
What are some of your professional and personal goals?
I will stick to short term goals for this. For now my biggest goal is to have a productive and safe deployment and carry out our mission, one step at a time.
What is your favorite part of your mission here?
The favorite part of my mission here is the time spent troubleshooting and learning about the aircraft and their systems.
What are some of your hobbies?
My main hobbies are typically out door related. Hiking and fishing are always a good pastime.
What are some of the challenges you face here? How do you overcome them?
Work always has its challenges here or anywhere else. My best strategy on overcoming them is taking a step back, keeping an open mind and pressing on.