'First Faces' recognizes mission contributions of Vance Airman Published Dec. 4, 2013 By 2nd Lt. Justin Nichols 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Staff Sgt. Nicholas Gallo is a "First Faces" recipient -- recognition for contributing to the Air Force mission. First Faces is an Air Education and Training Command Chaplain Corps program that honors Airmen who make important contributions to AETC without attention or fanfare. Gallo is the NCO in charge of the 71st Security Forces Squadron armory and is a combat arms instructor. He is from Coalgate, Okla. In his daily duties, Gallo is responsible for more than 500 weapons valued at more than $1 million. In the past year, he instructed 53 classes for 117 Security Forces deployers and 115 deployers from other units at Vance Air Force Base. Gallo joined the Air Force two years after a recruiter told him he was "too chunky" to qualify. Fifty-two pounds lighter, he returned to the same recruiter and enlisted as Security Forces. Although he loves Security Forces, his real passion is teaching. As a combat arms instructor, he works with people of all ranks. "I have a genuine desire to make a difference. My hope is every Airman with which I interact will not hesitate to follow me," said Gallo. He recently organized a paintball event that raised $3,500 for victims of the tornadoes in Moore, Okla. In his off duty time, Gallo enjoys spending time with his family and his church. He is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Homeland Security. First Faces is the idea of Chaplain (Col.) Steven Schaick, the AETC chaplain. He asks base chaplains to find Airmen who make significant contributions or have great stories to share. From those nominees Schaick picks the winners and presents them to the AETC commander. For more information about First Faces, call 580-213-7211.