Name: Pfc. Tyler Kent StonebrakerAge: 20Base: Camp Humphreys, South KoreaJob: Air traffic control

Describe your job.Awesome. I am a lower-ranked enlisted soldier entrusted with millions of dollars of equipment/aircraft and aviators’ lives. … Basically, nothing happens on the airfield without permission from the control tower.

What training were you given?A 14-week FAA-certified program. Once assigned to Desiderio Tower, I went through a six-month program — then took a huge test over everything to prepare me for the official Federal Aviation Administration CTO (control tower operator) licensing exam. After passing the exam and being monitored by a CTO examiner while working, I was certified to work all operating positions without constant supervision. That was a great feeling.

Your most exciting moment?It was a busy night … seven rotary aircraft in the pattern, all with a call-sign suffix ending in 1-0 or 1-1. A BE-20 called on final descent about seven-eight miles out. I had to quickly provide the necessary spacing to ensure it had the full length of the runway to land safely. Sounds easy, but at night aircraft position and in this case identification are harder to pinpoint — and my normal radar aide was out of service. … There was about a five-minute frenzy of issuing separation instructions.

But the BE-20 landed safely?Yes, but then I still had to make quick decisions to regain the steady flow of air traffic. It was a 20-minute rush. … I could barely talk at the end of the night.

What sort of person should do this work?

Skilled, articulate, competent and sharp — with excellent awareness and the best of multi-tasking skills. You can’t exactly give up in the middle of a busy rush because the stress was too much. If you shut off this “video game,” aviators’ lives are compromised.

Are you more or less afraid of flying now?I have never really been afraid of flying but I feel much safer now that I have a better knowledge of how aviation operations are conducted and the safety regulations/procedures involved.

Why the Army?I have always been “hooah” … the whole GI Joe and Rambo type. I also felt the Army had the most to offer.

What do you do for fun?I’m addicted to movies, as is every soldier in Korea, but still have not stooped to playing “World of Warcraft.” I enjoy outdoor activities … intramural sports … playing cards, bowling, hanging out with friends.

How do you stay in shape?Hit the gym regularly. I’m no Arnold but consider myself fit.

What do you bench press?I recently separated my shoulder while snowboarding. I can’t even lift the bar now. … When healthy, I don’t really train for big strength but more for physique. The most I ever benched was 275.

“Airport” or “Top Gun”?You gotta love “Top Gun.” … Everyone knows the “highway into the danger zone” song and the Maverick/Goose code names.

Which film will get the Oscar?“Departed,” at least it better.

Would you want to do air-traffic control as a civilian?Yes. I hope to do air traffic control work after my (Army) term of service is up in late May.

Know someone whose accomplishments, talents, job, hobby, volunteer work, awards or good deeds qualify them for 15 minutes of fame? How about someone whose claim to glory is a bit out of the ordinary — even, dare we say, oddball? Call Sharen Johnson at Stars and Stripes with the person’s name and contact information at DSN 229-3305 or e-mail her at: johnsons@pstripes.osd.mil.