CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Airman 1st Class Stephen McFate is an aerospace maintenance journeyman with the 437th Maintenance Squadron and has been stationed at Charleston AFB since December 2005.
As an aerospace maintenance journeyman assigned to the wheel and tire shop, he is responsible for rebuilding tires sent to the shop by the C-17 flight maintenance crews. He inspects each tire for defects, washes them and replaces worn or used tires with new tires.
"I see the impact of what we do here in the shop and how it helps C-17s fly on time to meet their mission," said Airman McFate. "Without tires, they can't fly. That makes me proud to member of this team."
This "warrior of the week" hails from Enon, Pa., and joined the Air Force two years ago to serve his country after the September 11th tragedy. He said the impact of that event was a major factor in his joining the Air Force. He also wanted the opportunity to further his education, travel and experience something different in life.
"I enjoy living on base and I get to use the base fitness center on a regular basis," said Airman McFate. "The quality of life provided by the base is outstanding and I plan to make the air force a career."
He also said he plans on completing his education and will strive to reach the highest level in his career.
"Airman McFate has impeccable work ethics," said Tech. Sgt. Lamont Butler, 437 MXS wheel and tire shop section chief. "His exceptional daily performance is a true asset to Air Mobility Command's number one wheel and tire shop."