Red Flag-Alaska

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Bielawski, a 354th Communications Squadron radio frequency transmissions journeyman, takes a brief break Sept. 13, 2016, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Bielawski said the accomplishment he is most proud of since he has been a member of the Iceman team is the Giant Voice upgrade he helped complete last year, which saved the Air Force $500,000. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Isaac Johnson)

Red Flag-Alaska

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Bielawski, a 354th Communications Squadron radio frequency transmissions journeyman, works on the Giant Voice system Sept. 13, 2016, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Radio frequency transmissions use this system for emergency communication as well as Reveille, Retreat, Taps and the National Anthem. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Isaac Johnson)

Red Flag-Alaska

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Bielawski, a 354th Communications Squadron radio frequency transmissions journeyman, works on a radio Sept. 13, 2016, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Bielawski is responsible for maintaining the radios so they are prepared for different events such as RED FLAG-Alaska. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Isaac Johnson)

Iceman in Action: Senior Airman Michael Bielawski

Published Sept. 16, 2016
By Airman Isaac Johnson
354th Fighter Wing public affairs

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --

Rank and Name: Senior Airman Michael Bielawski

Duty Title: Radio frequency transmission systems journeyman, 354th Communications Squadron

Hometown: Warner Robins, Ga.

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? This country has always provided me the freedoms to be whomever I want and I have always been grateful for that. I believe I can return the favor by serving and defending this great country.

What moment or accomplishment as a member of the Iceman Team are you most proud of and why? The accomplishment I am most proud of is the Giant Voice upgrade we performed last year, which saved the Air Force $500,000. We completed it ahead of schedule while also expanding the capabilities of the Mass Notification System. Being able to provide that much security to the base is a huge accomplishment.

What is your favorite part of your job? My favorite part of my job is working outside of the office, being outdoors and meeting the RED FLAG-Alaska participants. It always brings new challenges, but provides a great amount of experience.

Who inspires you and why? My father, a retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3, taught me to always do my best in whatever I set my mind to and has always been an example of hard work and dedication. If it wasn’t for him and his support, I don’t think I would be where I am today.

What's your favorite part about being in Alaska? The beautiful landscape; nothing can compare to it. For the past three years that I have been stationed here, it always blows my mind to see the vastness of it all.