SOUTHWEST ASIA -- I’m Staff Sgt. Ryan Rathke, a 386th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron deputy airfield manager. I am deployed from the 21st Operations Support Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. I joined the Air Force because I always had a deep desire to serve my country. I saw the Air Force as the best way for me to do so.
As an airfield manager, I run the wing airfield driving program which entails training unit program managers, administering tests, and inspecting unit programs. I conduct airfield inspections to ensure strict safety standards are adhered to and ensure successful aircraft operations. The best part of my mission is seeing what my team’s dedication has led to. For instance, processing flight plans and managing the parking plan are crucial to what makes the mission happen on a daily basis.
The biggest challenge I face is running the wing airfield driving program and working with twenty different units from different nations and services. It can make it challenging but I overcome this by being involved and active with my unit program managers.
My biggest professional goal is to become an officer and be a pilot in the Air Force. Some of my personal goals are to continue working out when I get back home and to increase my financial security.
Some of my hobbies are playing sports, skiing, fishing, and really anything outdoors.