Diamond Sharp Airmen: Cardinal counselor Published March 27, 2013 By Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- *This feature is the nineteenth in a series of Air Commando spotlights at Cannon. The Airmen being highlighted are recent Diamond Sharp award winners. Diamond Sharp is a monthly program where Airmen are recognized by wing leadership and first sergeants for their hard work and achievements. Military life tends to create unique challenges and stressors for service members that can be both mentally and physically draining. Because the mental fitness of Air Commandos is just as critical as the physical, a team of mental health specialists are in place at each installation to keep troops fit to fight in every life aspect. These mental health specialists, like Senior Airman Carlos Perez, 27th Special Operations Medical Group, are tasked with interviewing patients, providing guidance, counseling personnel to help meet goals and adjust to life changes as well as administering psychological tests to better assess psychosocial status. "We help or facilitate the assistance needed by each patient," said Perez. In the end, our job is to protect lives and our troops." Perez always wanted a profession in the medical field. A Chicago, Ill., native, the Airman attended the University of Illinois prior to enlisting. "Joining the Air Force completely changed my life," Perez added. "I've made the most of every moment here at Cannon and I feel like being here has really helped me grow." The Airman's career field enables Perez to support services such as family advocacy, substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation and social work. In a deployed environment, these specialists focus on suicide prevention and provide short-term therapy for stress and anxiety. Perez was recently recognized by leadership as a Diamond Sharp recipient for the month of March. "I didn't think I would actually win the award, I just come to work each day and do my best," Perez stated. "When I stood with the three other winners and listened to all the amazing things they contribute to our wing, I couldn't help but feel a little humbled to be recognized alongside them." "I can't say that I've flown countless hours, or saved the base money or even directly saved lives, but I play some part in that process and to me, that's something," he added. "I'm going to keep doing my job to the best of my ability and enjoy whatever experiences lie ahead."