Warrior of the Week: Senior Airman Maximiliano Estrada

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachiah Roberson
  • 319 Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  

Name: Senior Airman Maximiliano Estrada

Unit: 319th Force Support Squadron

Duty title: Installation Personnel Readiness Manager

Time in service:  2 years, 8 months

Time on station:  2 years, 3 months

Hometown:  Fresno, Calif.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you?

Being born in a different nation, this country has given me more than I could ever ask for. I am honored to be able to serve in its armed forces. It also allows me to be a part of something bigger than myself. It continues to challenge me every day, personally and professionally. There is a sense of responsibility in this profession that you cannot find in the civilian world. I enjoy the challenges the Air Force presents and I live for the opportunity to raise my potential. I love the feeling when I'm seemingly overwhelmed with work and I am able to prove to myself that I can push through any "wall." Every day I realize that I am a part of the greatest Air Force in the history of the world and that I contribute to that fact.

What moment or accomplishment as a Warrior of the North are you most proud of and why?

I am generally proud of deploying Airmen day in and day out to the AOR (Area of Responsibility). It gives me great pride to know I play a large part in sending our people downrange to defend this country's national interests. The accomplishment that I am most proud of is when I was awarded the Grand Forks AFB Warrior of the Year for volunteering. It shows that the work and effort Airmen put into the base and community is truly appreciated.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of the job is when members that I deploy return safely from the AOR. I am able to see the personal side of the military and nothing is more satisfying than seeing members come back to their families.

How do you apply the wing commander's principles of 'passion, proficiency and professionalism'?

I apply the wing commander's principles by completing the tasks put in front of me each and every day. Working in IPR, a lot of people depend on me to get them the right information. This means I am always reading the regulations and educating myself further. I have continued to follow a motto that I heard when I first entered the Air Force, "treat an Airman like you would treat a colonel and treat a colonel like you would treat an Airman". The wing commander's principle embodies respect and this is something I try to live up to.

Who or what inspires you and why?

There are a couple people at Grand Forks AFB that inspire me every day. My beautiful wife inspires me to be a better husband, father and most importantly a better man. Chief Master Sgt. Marlon Carcamo is another individual who inspires me. He too came from another country and was still able to reach the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force. This is something I aspire to do one day as well. Inspiration can come from many places but you also have to believe that you are capable of reaching your dreams.

What's the first thing that made you think Grand Forks Air Force Base was a cool place other than the temperature or weather?

The people, they are so polite and always willing to help out. My wife and I enjoy the small-knit community that Grand Forks offers. 

Do you have any military service family members or anyone close to you that has served? If so when and where did they serve?

No I do not; I am the first member of my family to serve in the armed forces of the United States. I hope to inspire more members of my family to join one day.