OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Patrick Somado-Hemazro, 51st Maintenance Squadron phase support journeyman, was recognized as Mustang of the Week at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 19, 2025.
Somado-Hemazro plays a critical role in supporting the Osan mission by ensuring maintenance equipment is readily available for personnel under any contingency. He manages tools, conducts quality inspections throughout the day, and runs programs for hazardous materials, vehicles, radios and other equipment.
“To maintain the ‘Fight Tonight’ posture is to make sure all the tools are ready and serviceable so maintenance can be executed without delaying mission readiness,” said Somado-Hemazro.
Acting on this mindset, he took initiative to put two mobile generators into service, contributing to operational support and readiness. Additionally, Somado-Hemazro ran mid shift by himself for over three months as a junior enlisted Airman, and managed the transfer of tools from Kunsan Air Base and Misawa Air Base into their Consolidated Tool Kit.
His commitment has become especially important as the 51st MXS adapts to organizational changes aimed at improving operational efficiency across the wing.
Previously, maintenance personnel and equipment were aligned under the 35th and 36th Fighter Generations Squadrons. To optimize capabilities, the U.S. Air Force consolidated heavy
maintenance, fabrication, intermediate-level repairs, and specialized support functions into the 51st MXS, supporting both FGSs from a single squadron.
During this change, Somado-Hemazro has been a constant in his unit, filling in manning gaps by working off shifts and taking the initiative to work on extra tasks.
“He’s a high-speed phase support technician who stays ahead of the flow and absolutely crushes customer service and inspection details,” said Staff Sgt. Jacob Ornelas, 51st MXS phase support noncommissioned officer in charge. “He is always the first to lean in when the Phase hits a snag.”
As the 51st MXS continues adapting to evolving mission requirements, Airmen like Somado-Hemazro remain essential to maintaining operational readiness across the wing.