CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Staff Sgt. Matthew Conn is a loadmaster for the 16th Airlift Squadron and has been stationed at Charleston AFB for 14 months.
As a loadmaster, he is responsible for the safe loading and off-loading of aircraft cargo. He computes the weight, balance and the center of gravity for the cargo. He also provides for the safety and comfort of passengers and troops along with the security of the cargo.
This "warrior of the week" hails from Ottawa, Ohio, and joined the Air Force in November 2002.
"I am very patriotic and feel it is a privilege to serve my country," said Sergeant Conn. "Last year I flew more than 345 hours, 214 sorties and moved 6.9 million pounds of cargo. I was also part of a crew that was responsible for the safety of more than 4,000 passengers."
He plans on completing his bachelor's degree this year with the hopes of pursuing a career in physical therapy. After this enlistment, he plans on transferring to the Air National Guard to continue using his loadmaster skills. He was chosen as the 437th Airlift Wing Loadmaster of the Year for 2007.
"Sergeant Conn is an absolutely phenomenal performer," said Master Sgt. Steven Wright, 16 AS chief loadmaster. "He has the can-do attitude and amazing natural loadmaster abilities."