Warrior of the Week: Staff Sgt. James Madnick

  • Published
  • By Airman Derek VanHorn
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The responsibility of working to ensure the reliability of medical equipment and repairs are up to standard falls on the lap of Staff Sgt. James Madnick, 319th Medical Support Squadron biomedical equipment repair noncommissioned-officer-in-charge. He and his crew of two provide both scheduled and improvisational maintenance for five squadrons on a wide variety of instruments, crossing into multiple career fields.

"We work on everything in the hospital, from thermometers to dental equipment to X-rays," said Madnick. "The best part of the job is being able to make sure everything remains working and everyone's needs are met without cutting corners."

As odd as it sounds, Madnick looks forward to potential setbacks at work; they both keep him busy and provide an opportunity to do what he loves.

"If I could choose any job in the world, it would literally be this," said the Washington state native. "I like the electronic and trouble-shooting aspect of being able to look at something and figure out how to properly fix it."

Sergeant Madnick also volunteers his time and efforts to help fix a widespread problem that can affect many - drinking and driving under the influence. Sergeant Madnick is the president of Airmen Against Drunk Driving, a volunteer organization that provides free, safe, confidential rides home to military members, military dependents, and Department of Defense civilians who make the responsible decision to not drive after drinking.

Madnick said he volunteers his time with hopes to prevent anyone from being involved in an accident, especially his own family -- a family that is happy to live in the Grand Forks area, raising two boys with his wife of 9 years.

"This is a great situation for my family," he said. "The Air Force has provided me stability and education, something I hope my children can learn from."

At home, Madnick said he spends most of his time with the family - playing sports, bike riding, going bowling, and swimming at the base pool and water parks.

"Our dream vacation would be taking our kids to Las Vegas to watch the Monster Jam World Finals," he said. "We go every year to the Fargo events, but it would be fun for all of us to see the big one."

Madnick is currently taking his final class to attain his CCAF degree, and plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in Business Management.