Pride of POL

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shane M. Phipps
  • 366th Fighter Wing
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  The Air Force boasts a diverse assortment of individuals, many of whom consistently work with little reward or recognition while providing contributions vital to mission success.

Airman 1st Class Dillon DePiazza, 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, is no exception.

DePiazza is an entry-level Airman who has quietly made a habit of displaying Air Force core values.

He chose to join the Air Force in an attempt to follow the footsteps of close relatives.

"My grandfather and my uncle were both in the Air Force," said DePiazza. "They encouraged me, and at the time, the economy was in bad shape, so I figured joining would be the best choice for my future."

After a brief technical school, the 19-year-old DePiazza joined the ranks of the Mountain Home Air Force Base petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL) crew.

"I enjoy what I do," DePiazza said. "A lot of people forget how important it is, but without us nothing moves on the base. We run the service center as well as fill up the jets. They can do all the maintenance they want, but nothing's going anywhere without POL."

DePiazza's supervision can attest to his unprecedented efforts and contagious positive demeanor.

"He has an outstanding work ethic and always does whatever is asked of him," said Staff Sgt. Brian Wozniak, 366th LRS distribution supervisor.

DePiazza's strong character extends outside of his duties with fuel. He also is the only junior enlisted physical training leader in his flight.

"Helping other people get in shape makes me feel good," DePiazza said, a native of Oakland, Calif. "It's a great privilege that they let me be a PTL as an Airman because being in the military, physical fitness is paramount, and I would like to uphold that standard."

Airman DePiazza is an example of what it means to be an American Airman, without asking for praise or recognition but merely because it's the right thing to do.