City of Tampa honors MacDill superintendent with Woman of the Year recognition

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christine Carragher
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE Fla. --  Senior Master Sgt. Angela Suafoa, 6th Aerospace Medicine Squadron superintendent, was recognized by the city of Tampa as the 2015 Military Woman of the Year.

Each year the prestigious award is given to women that showcase significant contributions toward the enhancement, advancement and support of women in the federal workplace.

Suafoa's dedication to the men and women of the 6th Air Mobility Wing were continuously displayed as she counseled and guided Airmen and their families, all while epitomizing the Air Force's definition of a senior noncommissioned officer.

"What I am doing for others is nothing extraordinary, it's me doing exactly what I love to do--helping others," said Suafoa." There is no better feeling than knowing you were an inspiration or guiding light for someone else."

When asked why she wants to help women, Suafoa answered, "Not only do I want to help women--I want to help everyone. However, if during that process I am able to inspire women to push themselves beyond their limits, it would be an amazing accomplishment."

Mention her name in the 6th Medical Group and anyone will tell you about her charisma, humble nature, and effervescent positive attitude.

"Sergeant Suafoa is an inspiration to all women; not only does she portray a positive self-image, she breaks down barriers and is 100 percent genuine in her¬ efforts," said Tech. Sgt. Leslie Diaz, NCO-in charge of occupational health. "Her earning this award is the prefect recognition for the endless dedication to selflessness that she displays."

According to Suafoa, the accomplishments she received aren't actually hers, they belong to the men and women of Team MacDill. They are the ones that push the limits every day to get the mission accomplished.

She likes to remind herself and those who she mentors that, "If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough."

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Suafoa, a Riverside, California native, is a traditional bioenvironmental engineer who has been in the Air Force for 17 years.