FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. – Nominee’s Rank and Name:
Staff Sgt. Jan Michael G Obiniana
Unit of assignment: 92nd Force Support Squadron
Nominee’s duty title: Sports Program Manager
Home town and state: Manila, Philippines
What do you do on a daily basis at Fairchild AFB?
I am the Sports Program Manager and I make and update Intramural schedules, standings, manage official’s contract, and balance the budget. Also, I get the playing fields (basketball court, softball field, and football field) ready for games.
What do you enjoy about your job?
Being able to connect with people all over Fairchild on a more relaxed level and being able to help them relieve stress and be competitive too.
Why did you choose to serve in the military?
I joined the military because I wanted to give back and provide my family an opportunity for a better life in the United States.
Family?
I am happily married to my wonderful wife Yvonne and we have a 2 year-old son, Jacob Gabriel.
How long have you been in the military?
5 years and 8 months.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is recently making Staff Sergeant. I put in a lot of blood, sweat, and tears this past year, so I am really proud of myself for making it.
What goals do you want to achieve or meet while at Fairchild AFB?
My goal is to continue to make people more than satisfied with the sports programs that we currently offer and at the same time. I want to offer them more opportunities to compete in different team sports.
What are your hobbies?
I love to play basketball, lift weights and spend time with my wife and son.
What is your best habit?
My best habit would be the ability to bring the best out of people. I enjoy seeing others succeed and do well in whatever they are doing. Whether it is going the extra mile by providing game-winning balls to the softball champions or taking extra time painting the fields with the team’s squadron name, doing above and beyond for others to see them smile.
What is your favorite quote?
“Heroes come and go, but legends are forever.” - Kobe Bryant
What are your favorite movies?
Forrest Gump, Gladiator, Braveheart and Space Jam!
Who is your favorite mentor and what did you learn from him/her?
I can’t pick just one, as there are numerous people who have brought positivity to my career. Tech Sgt. Troy Farley taught me how to get the playing fields 110 percent ready for play with safety being the first thing to consider and Master Sgt. Amy Russell is always there to support me in everything that I do with the sports programs. She never fails to recognize deserving people and genuinely cares about every Airman in our workplace.
If you could spend one hour with any person, who would it be and why?
I would easily pick my dad, Victor. My dad passed away at the young age of 54 from heart disease. His sudden death happened the day before I was supposed to see him in California. It still breaks my heart whenever I think about that day, because I never had the chance to tell him how much I love him and to say thank you. He is my hero!
What Staff Sgt. Jan Michael G Obiniana leadership is saying:
“SSgt. Obiniana is a high-caliber Airman that consistently demonstrates the traits of a quality NCO. In a career field that is as customer service oriented as ours, he goes above and beyond expectations to provide the best possible morale boosting and team building activities for Team Fairchild as the Sports Program Manager. We always expect the best from Staff Sgt. Obiniana and he never fails to perform at that level.” said Tech Sgt. Justin Kohl, NCOIC for Fitness & Sports.
“Staff Sgt. Obiniana has a contagious and positive attitude. He is always sharp, timely, courteous, and all the great things you need and expect from a stellar NCO. He is always setting the example for others to follow. He takes his job seriously and really puts in extra effort to do well and I really appreciate that.” said MSgt Amy Russell, section chief for Fitness & Sports.