Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Triniti Lersch | 210407-N-GK686-1012 NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Italy (April 7, 2021) -- Air Traffic...... read more read more
Air Traffic Controller (AC) 2nd Class Aaron Patinos from Wheaton, Illinois, joined the Navy to serve his country and to make a difference, but those are not the only reasons.
“I’ve always wanted to see the world, and I know the Navy was a great option to do that,” said Patinos. “I’ve endlessly had a love for the water. I’ve been swimming since I was young, and that’s what drew me to the Navy.”
Although water drew Patinos to the Navy, as an AC, he spends most of his time with his head in the clouds. ACs play a key role in the effective use of Naval airpower throughout the world in operational and training environments. ACs control and direct air traffic, provide information essential to safe operations, operate and adjust computer-based systems, interpret data shown on radar screens, and maintain aeronautical charts and maps.
Although being an AC can be stressful and mentally challenging, Patinos enjoys his job. “It’s a great rate; it’s small and competitive as well as an elite community, said Patinos. “We strive for success and excellence in everything we do and there’s a lot of pride in doing that, and that’s what I love about being an AC.”
Patinos’ work days range from flight planning, sending flight plans, and getting to train in the air traffic control tower.
In addition to his work, Patinos balances several collateral duties including serving as building manager, fire warden, a member of the Second Class Petty Officer Association, Community Relations (COMRELS) coordinator, Enterprise Safety Applications Management System Safety Officer, Training Petty Officer and cabinet member of the Master-at-Arms.
Patinos especially enjoys being a part of COMRELs and other volunteer events. During his eight months onboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, he’s been on about 10 COMRELS totaling around 100 hours.
“It’s been a little difficult because COVID-19 restrictions have limited our capabilities to get out and do stuff,” said Patinos. “Even though I haven’t been able to go out and travel as much, I try and make an effort to maximize the amount of time that I’m here. So that means getting involved with the command, spending time with friends, or volunteering: I try to do that as much as I can.”
Patinos is currently working on his airfield management and aeronautics degree and plans on serving 20 years in the Navy. In his free time he enjoys working out, reading, gaming, and hiking.
As a duty station, Sigonella has been a good fit for Patinos because he loves the outdoors and the Sicilian hospitality he’s experienced.
“Getting to interact with Sicilian culture is one of my favorite things to do out here,” said Patinos
Although most of his work is in the air, Patinos still finds ways to get back to the water. Ortigia is his favorite place in Sicily because of the island mood and its seaside location.
“Anywhere by the water is peaceful for me just being able to go out and enjoy a good time by the beaches with friends,” said Patinos.
| Date Taken: | 04.09.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 05.07.2021 08:27 |
| Story ID: | 394023 |
| Location: | SIGONELLA, IT |
| Hometown: | WHEATON, ILLINOIS, US |
| Web Views: | 27 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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