Mission essential -- Nicola DeJesus, dental technician Published Feb. 11, 2013 VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Senior Airman Nicola DeJesus is one of five dental technicians who clean the teeth of more than 90 Team Vance members each month at the Dental Services Flight, part of the 71st Medical Operations Squadron at Vance Air Force Base. By helping patients keep their teeth healthy, DeJesus is ensuring the 71st Flying Training Wing meets its mission of deploying combat ready warriors. DeJesus is also the Airman of the Year for the 71st MDOS.