Macedo named March Airman of the Month Published April 4, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Frank Casciotta 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Airman 1st Class Alysia Macedo, an aerospace physiology technician with the 71st Medical Operations Squadron, is the March Airman of the Month for the 71st Flying Training Wing. "She has an undeniable drive to learn and a very distinct thirst for knowledge," said Tech. Sgt. Iyendo Manchester, flight chief of aerospace and operational physiology. "She's one of those people who wants to know how things work and where she fits in the grand scheme of things here," said Manchester. "She will be a great asset to us and the Air Force in the future, for sure." On a day to day basis, Macedo contributes to training world class pilots. Not only does she assist students with their paperwork but teaches them essential survival skills. "I work with students teaching egress training with the T-1 and T-6 as well as work with the students on the Barany chair to help them deal with air sickness," said Macedo. "I am also an insider observer in the hypobaric chamber." Macedo says her experience has made her grow into a better person and exceed personal expectations of herself. "I'm torn about staying in the military," said Macedo. "I love being in the Air Force and like being part of something that affects so many lives, but I'm from a small town that's very family orientated, so it's hard for me to be away from that." To be awarded Airman of the Month Macedo, from Apple Valley, Calif., went before a board composed of one senior NCO, an NCO and last month's Airman of the Month. The board asked her questions on specific military related areas and current events. Macedo was scored on her responses, dress and appearance, communication skills and professionalism. Macedo has been in the Air Force for eight months and says she joined to make something of herself.