Story by Staff Sgt. Sean Martin, 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE — Staff Sgt. Michael Todaro, 2nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron dedicated crew chief, was recently selected to become a crew chief on Air Force 2.
Todaro was honored to be able to have such a rare opportunity as this.
“I knew there were six other guys also vying for this position,” said Todaro. “It was big shock and also very exciting when I found out I was the person chosen.”
Todaro was required to submit a package that included past Enlisted Performance Reports, fitness scores, letters of recommendation from leadership and peers and an official photo of himself.
“I felt my package was very strong going into the process.” said Todaro. “I received excellent remarks on my EPR’s, no paperwork from my supervision and received all excellent on my physical fitness tests. Needless to say, I was very confident in it.”
Todaro chose this opportunity as a way to not only experience something different, but to do something that many crew chiefs do not get the chance to do.
“Not many people can say they have worked on Air Force 2,” said Todaro. “I looked at this new job as a way for me to use the skills I have developed and sharpened here and apply them to a different airframe and mission.”
Todaro’s hard work and knowledge of his craft did not go unnoticed by his leadership. “I was happy for him when he came to me with this idea and more than happy to help him in the process,” said Tech. Sgt. Michael Mettenbrink, 2nd AMXS aircraft section chief. “I couldn’t think of anyone better suited for the job.”
Todaro is very knowledgeable about anything related to the B-52H Stratofortress and competent with any task he is given, we have complete faith that he will get it done timely and effectively, added Mettenbrink.
Having a strong support system behind him made this process even easier for Todaro.
“I have been very lucky when it comes to leadership and the Wingmen I have in my corner,” said Todaro. “Ever since I have been in the Air Force, I have had nothing but great supervisors.”
Todaro will be leaving Barksdale June 30, and will be assigned to the 89th Maintenance Group, stationed out of Andrews Air Force Base, Md.
