ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- After 46 years of service, David Pelino, 97th Comptroller Squadron unit program coordinator, retired from civil service June 6, 2025, at Altus Air Force Base.
Pelino’s service to his country began nearly 50 years ago, in 1979 with the FBI, where he worked for five years in the public affairs office at the J. Edgar Hoover building in Washington, D.C. He joined the Air Force in 1984 and served for 26 years both in the U.S. and abroad. In 1999, he received the 7th Air Force Lance P. Sijan Leadership Award, which recognizes outstanding performance by junior enlisted members. One of his proudest achievements was his promotion to master sergeant in 2003 through the Air Force's Stripes for Exceptional Performers (STEP) program while stationed at RAF Menwith Hill in the United Kingdom. He retired in 2010.
After his military retirement, Pelino continued his service at Altus AFB as a civilian for the next 15 years. Starting as a dental technician, he later became a secretary for the 97th Contracting Flight and then the executive assistant to the commander of the 97th Comptroller Squadron. In 2020, Pelino took on the role of unit program coordinator, overseeing unit deployment, safety, health monitoring, and physical training leadership.
“Mr. Pelino has been a staple at CPTS and he has done a lot of great things for the Wing Staff Agencies,” said Col. Jared Scherff, 97th CPTS commander. “However, I think what most people will remember him for is how well he took care of our Airmen and treated all of us like family.”
Pelino’s responsibilities often extended beyond administrative tasks, especially when it came to ensuring physical fitness standards were met throughout WSA. He also organized morale-boosting activities, such as “Trunk or Treat” and fundraising events for the annual Christmas party.
"My years of service have been an honor and a privilege," Pelino said. "I step down knowing that the work we do matters, and that the journey of service is one of the most rewarding paths anyone can take."
Pelino's leadership and commitment have been recognized throughout his career, earning him numerous accolades, including the Diamond Sharp Award in 2024 and Junior Civilian of the Year for the Wing Staff Agencies in 2024. As he prepares for the next chapter of his life, he is grateful for the relationships and memories he leaves behind.
“I’ll miss you all,” he said. “I’m thankful for the memories and friendships.”