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Rock Solid Warrior: Staff Sgt. Gabriel Perez

  • Published
  • 386th Expeditionary Medical Group
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Rank/First & Last Name:
Staff Sgt. Gabriel Perez

Deployed Unit:
386th Expeditionary Medical Group (EMDG)

Duty Title:
Medical Control Center (MCC) Assistant Noncommissioned officer in charge

Home unit/station:
96th Medical Support Squadron, Eglin AFB, Fla.

Family's military heritage:
Uncle served in the Air Force as a C-130 pilot; completed two tours in Vietnam

What is your mission here?
My mission is to ensure the MCC is conducting proper coordination of patient care and transmitting vital information to leadership to maintain EMDG capability.

What are some of the best parts of your mission?
One best parts of my mission is ensuring we are providing our patients with the highest quality care possible.

What are some of the challenges you face while conducting your mission, and how do you overcome them?
One of the toughest parts of deployments is being away from family. I try to stay busy and focus on school to increase the possibilities of advancing in my career and providing for my family.

How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base?
This deployment gives me the opportunity to work closely with our leadership as well as other specialties in the AF. By working together in a deployed setting, we're able to function as a cohesive unit to support the mission.

How many times have you deployed?
Three

What makes this deployment unique?
What makes this deployment unique from my past deployment is the ability to learn about and experience the local culture on and off base. This is my first deployment that has allowed us to become more familiar with host nationals.

Why did you join the Air Force?
I joined the Air Force to serve my country and provide a great life for my family. The Air Force has instilled core values and has provided me with the tools needed to become a successful leader.