22nd CS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Katrina M. Brisbin
  • 22nd CS Airman earns spotlight performer
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 Vidal Pleasant, 22nd Communications Squadron radio frequency transmission systems technician, was selected as the spotlight performer for the week of Jan. 14 to 18, 2013.

Pleasant has been in the Air Force since September 2011 and at McConnell since July 2012. The Delhi, La., native enjoys playing musical instruments, tennis and writing short stories.

As a radio frequency transmission systems technician, Pleasant troubleshoots, repairs and maintains several types of radio communication systems played in various missions on base.

"Out of my five years here, the transmissions shop has never had an Airman with more drive and dedication to service," said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Witmer, 22nd CS transmission systems NCO in charge. "A1C Pleasant has vastly exceeded all expectations of an Airman with many more years of experience."

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My mother is the most positive influence in my life. She once told me "Life is not always easy, but hard work and dedication will pay off in the end." Growing up I watched her work hard and not once have I seen her give up on anything. Her drive, determination, love and dedication are what inspire me to be the best I can be. She has stood by my side and encouraged me every step of the way. Without her I wouldn't have made it this far.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
Live for a cause, not for applause, live to express and not to impress, don't strive to make your presence noticed, live such that your absence is felt. I say this because you should dedicate more time to completing your mission or goal rather than wondering when you're going to receive you next award. Don't get so caught up in trying to receive awards that you lose focus on you primary mission. If you're sufficient at your job and you go above and beyond expectations, the awards and popularity will come sooner than you think.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
My biggest goal that I would like to accomplish during my Air Force career is to work for the White House Communications Agency.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place I have traveled to is New Orleans, La., because of the incredible shopping districts, wide variety of entertainment, delicious food, historical buildings, and its never ending night-life.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I could meet anyone in the world it would be President Barack Obama, because I would like to know how he became so successful in his career, how he copes with day-to-day stress, what his life is like inside the White House, and a series of other interesting questions.