350th ARS boom operator earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Victor J. Caputo
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Senior Airman Nicholas Lichtenwalner, 350th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, was selected to be the spotlight performer the week of Aug. 30 - Sept. 5.

Lichtenwalner is responsible for piloting the boom on the KC-135 Stratotanker during aerial refueling, extending the range on American and allied aircraft indefinitely.

"Senior Airman Lichtenwalner epitomizes our core values each and every day through his drive for excellence both in the scheduling office and in the air accomplishing the various tanker missions," said Lt. Col. Jason Pavelschak, 350th ARS commander. "His professionalism and dedication to his fellow Airman and the mission are second to none."

The Greendale, Wisconsin native joined the Air Force in January 2013, and has been a member of Team McConnell since February 2014.

His hobbies include hunting, camping, motorcycles and spending time with his wife.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My wife is the most positive influence on me. She is always pushing me to be the best at what I do and doesn't let me slip up.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why? 
My advice is to work hard. If you do, it will show and it will pay off.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career? 
I would like to finish my college career. I started prior to joining the military, but I would like to finish my degree in criminal justice.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I would say Moron, Spain. It was awesome to see the culture of the country and interact with the locals. They were extremely friendly and willing to show us around their hometown. It was a beautiful country with a lot of things to do.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why? 
I would like to meet Kevin Hart. I think he is hilarious and his movies are great. It seems like he would be an awesome person to meet because of his humor.