Arango-Morales: Shark of the Week

Published March 10, 2015
By 45th Space Wing

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Staff Sgt. Jacklyn Arango-Morales, 45th Operations Group Airfield Management Operations supervisor, was selected for Shark of the Week.

Arango-Morales was nominated by Chief Master Sgt. James A. Isom III, 45th OG, because he said she is the epitome of the Air Force Core Values. In a moment of potential concern, she volunteered for a temporary assignment down range during the Christmas and New Year's holidays, according to Isom.

"Her task was to manage a strategically important airfield that had been without an air field manager for over 60 days; a position typically filled with a seasoned master sergeant," Isom said.

Morales quickly took charge and led a joint United States and United Kingdom team ensuring safe and efficient operations in support of two countries, according to Isom. "She has coordinated support to humanitarian missions resettling refugees, arranged refueling operations, and ensured the safe passage of 1.2 million pounds of cargo and 100 personnel in support of Operation United Assistance, Ebola relief to West Africa," Isom said.

Additionally, Morales was a recipient of an Academic Award from Airman Leadership School and is leading from the front and making it happen, according to Isom.

Name: Jacklyn Morales

Time in service: 6 years

Hometown: Miami, Florida

Motto: Never live the same day twice

Hobbies/Interests: I consider myself a music connoisseur. Music is a very big part of my life; I listen to a little bit of everything from country to hip hop. On my time off you can usually find me in a concert or online researching new bands.

Why do you serve: The biggest reason I serve is because of my family. My older sister served in the Army and I always looked up to her and even dressed up as her for Halloween one year. I followed in her footsteps and made the smart choice to join the Air Force. I also have a younger sister who looks up to me and I want to be a good role model for.

How do you support the mission: I'm responsible for providing a safe and efficient airfield by identifying and mitigating hazards. Additionally, I coordinate support for arriving and departing aircraft such as: aircraft parking, refueling operations, and cargo on-load/off load, among many other services. More importantly, I ensure the safe passage of aircraft to keep the mission going with zero mishaps and zero delays.

To nominate the next Shark of the Week, contact the 45th Space Wing Public Affairs Office at (321) 494-5933, or email 45swpa@us.af.mil to obtain a request a form.