Dragon of the Week Published May 19, 2009 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISS. -- Name -- Tech Sgt. Manuel Matute Unit -- 333rd Training Squadron Position -- Global Command and Control System-Joint instructor supervisor Time in the Air Force -- 15 years Time at Keesler -- 2½ years Noteworthy -- I was coined by Gen. Henry Viccellio, then commander of Air Force Materiel Command, for winning an award. As an airman first class, he was larger than life to me... not to mention, he really was humongous so shaking his hand was like shaking a bear paw. Hometown -- Manchester, Conn. Why did you join the Air Force? -- I initially joined for the education benefits and because my friends went into other services (I wanted to be different.) I had no intentions of enjoying this as much as I do and planned on only serving four years. I stayed in because I can see the positive impact we have on our nation and the world as a whole ... I enjoy being a part of that. What are your short- and long-term goals --short-term, to make master sergeant; long-term, to earn my master's degree. What are your hobbies? building things, camping and spending time with my family. What's your favorite quote? I have two. "Thinking is the hardest work there is ... which is why so few engage in it." -- Henry Ford. Also, "In the face of adversity lies opportunity." -- Albert Einstein.