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Diamond Sharp Airmen: Healthcare humanitarian

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  *This feature is the tenth 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.

Airmen are aware that the Air Force's mission will require them to work in a vast range of environments and facilities from aircraft hangars to ammunition back-shops. It takes a unique breed of specialists to ensure that Air Commandos at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., are safe wherever their work takes them by evaluating workplace hazards.

"We cover a very wide scope of health concerns, all geared toward taking care of our people," said Airman 1st Class Alyssa May Flores, 27th Special Operations Aerospace Medical Squadron Bioenvironmental Engineering technician. "We monitor exposure risks to radiation, chemicals, thermal stress and ergonomic hazards such as extreme noise."

In addition to workplace hazards, bioenvironmental Airmen ensure that biological and nuclear waste are handled and disposed of properly. In an over-arching scope, these technicians promote the health and well-being of Air Force personnel.

"Our shop also performs gas mask fit tests and briefs deploying members on specific hazards they will encounter in their new environments," Flores added. "In essence, we provide preventative medicine to keep our Airmen healthy and mission-ready."

Flores grew up in the Philippines, in a province called Pampanga. She came to the United States in September 2010 and joined her brother, already an active-duty Air Force member himself, in Dover, Del.

"I joined to help my family, most of whom are still overseas," she stated. "The Air Force is helping me achieve so many life-long goals. I've been provided with independence, shown responsibility and gained a very rewarding career.

"I love everything about my job," Flores stated. "I love facing unique challenges in my line of work. We often have to take our Air Force Instruction, know what's supposed to be done, and question whether or not one rule will fit every situation. Applying critical thinking and innovative solutions keeps me on my toes."

Airman Flores recently assisted with testing for lead near Cannon's Combat Arms Training and Maintenance range - a heavy metal that poses significant health risk in certain quantities. The Airman takes a certain amount of pride in helping not just her wingmen, but members within the surrounding communities.

"It's all about lending a hand to those in need whenever you can," Flores said. "The Air Force has really shaped me into a more complete person and I've learned that a place won't change much for you, but you can change yourself to be so much more."