Tip of the Spear

U.S. Air Force Capt. Marc Mazzanti, 319th Special Operations Squadron pilot, poses for the Tip of the Spear weekly spotlight at Hurlburt Field, Fla. Nov. 2, 2010. Captain Mazzanti was selected by his peers as a top performer in his squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Sarah Martinez/RELEASED)

Capt. Marc Mazzanti

Published Nov. 3, 2010
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- "Tip of the Spear" is a weekly spotlight designed to recognize outstanding Airmen for the work they do every day at Hurlburt Field. Capt. Marc Mazzanti, 319th Special Operations Squadron pilot, was selected for this week's spotlight.

Name: Capt. Marc Mazzanti

Unit: 319th Special Operations Squadron

Duty Title: PC-12 Aircraft Commander/Tactician

Hometown: Yardville, New Jersey

Date Entered the Air Force: June 2006

Hobbies: Camping, hiking, backpacking, skiing, guns/shooting.

Why did you join the Air Force?
To serve my country and gain the best flying experience

How does your Air Force specialty contribute to the mission?
It directly supports special operations around the world.

If you were Chief of Staff of the Air Force for one day, how
would you change the Air Force?
Can I get more than one day?

What's your favorite thing about Hurlburt Field?
The close proximity to an amazing beach.

What do you like most about being an Airman?
Serving with some of the greatest men and women and being a part of something bigger than myself.

What's one thing you wish you were told before joining the Air
Force?
Nothing, I was fully prepared.

What motivates you at work?
The mission.

Who are your heroes/role models?
Great aviators like Eddie Rickenbacker, Billy Mitchell, and Robin Olds and all those who have served before me.

Advice to others?
A short cut is supposed to be hard, if it isn't, it wouldn't be a short cut to begin with, it would just be "the normal way". Taking the harder road will often give the best results in life.