STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.Y. – -- The 105th Base Defense Group relies on the dedication and expertise of its Airmen to carry out its mission of organizing, training and equipping defenders to execute defense operations globally – and Airman 1st Class Tinatin Sadzaglishvili, 105th Base Defense Squadron entry controller, is no exception.
As an entry controller, Sadzaglishvili maintains the security and integrity of Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York, by controlling access to the installation. She verifies visitors’ reasons to be on base and issues their visitor passes, verifies the credentials of personnel entering base and conducts random vehicle inspections, so only authorized individuals and no prohibited items are granted access. She ensures only authorized individuals and items are on the installation by verifying credentials for everyone who enters the base and conducting random vehicle inspections
“Being an entry controller can be challenging and sometimes repetitive, but it’s also a critical role that keeps the base secure. I take pride in that responsibility,” said Sadzaglishvili. “What really makes it enjoyable and interesting is the team I’m surrounded by. The people who work at the gate make even tough days better and help keep morale high.”
According to Senior Master Sgt. Flavio A. Martinez, 105 BDG senior enlisted leader, Sadzaglishvili is driven and has an attention for detail that has led to more than five arrests at the base’s main gate and multiple cases of contraband being discovered.
He also noted that just days after graduating from training, Sadzaglishvili was assigned to the Department of Corrections state active duty mission. When she returned to normal operations at Stewart ANGB, she quickly pivoted to flight operations and earning certifications for her job duties, including receiving a perfect score on one to be able to man the main gate by herself, and training other members.
“She is not settling, and the hope is that she inspires others to do the same,” said Martinez.
Sadzaglishvili joined the New York Air National Guard to build a foundation for her future, for the valuable training, structure and leadership opportunities, and to challenge herself by becoming the first member of her family to serve in the military. She hopes to develop technical skills, discipline and a strong work ethic that will benefit her in and out of uniform.
“From professional development and leadership training to the chance to serve my community and country, the Air National Guard has helped me grow in ways I wouldn’t have experienced elsewhere,” said Sadzaglishvili. “It gives me purpose, structure and the ability to keep challenging myself.”