344th ARS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Laura L. Valentine
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating one or more of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander's intents: Foster a culture of excellence ... Develop the next generation of leaders ... Set and achieve goals.

Airman 1st Class Zachery Dailey, 344th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, was chosen as the spotlight performer for the week of Jan. 22 to 25, 2013.

As a boom operator, he is responsible for in-flight air refueling, cargo planning and loading, computing weight and balance, and passenger handling duties.

Dailey has been in the Air Force since March 2011 and at McConnell for nine months. In that short time he's deployed once, and is currently on his second deployment. When he's not fulfilling his role as a boom operator, he works in the mobility shop as a readiness assistant and a unit deployment manager assistant.

"Airman Dailey has proven to be a vital asset to the 344th ARS," said Staff Sgt. Blazej Masiak, 344th ARS mobility NCO in charge. "When he's not voluntarily deployed, gaining combat hours and experience on the aircraft in his goal to become an Instructor Boom, he's mastering his UDM assistant responsibilities for mobilization and deployment of the 344th ARS. His motivation, dedication and excellent work habits give me no doubt that he will be a phenomenal NCO"

Dailey was selected as a 2012 fourth quarter senior airman below-the-zone, out of a field of 86 eligible candidates. Additionally, he's been involved in projects in the Wichita, Kan., area, to include Habitat for Humanity. On base he has supported events like the POW/MIA ceremony flyover, Air Force Gala and Airman's Council retreat ceremony. He is the prime example of a "whole-person" concept, said Masiak.

The Knoxville, Tenn., native enjoys hunting, activities outdoors and working on his truck.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My dad is the most positive influence because he has helped me through all aspects of life and helped me to become the man I am today.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
Be on time, no matter what, and make good decisions. Always think twice before doing something and give it your all to be the best you can be at whatever you do.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
Making senior airman below-the-zone

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I went on a bear hunting trip to Saskatchewan, Canada and killed a black bear. It was a great experience and a beautiful place to see.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet Hank Williams Jr. because I love his music.