First Knight Published Feb. 12, 2010 By 21st Space Wing Public Affairs COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Tech. Sgt. Ruben Ayala was selected for this week's First Knight award. This award is designed to recognize outstanding Airmen each week for the work they do every day. Name: Tech. Sgt. Ruben Ayala Unit: 21st Contracting Squadron Duty Title: Noncommissioned officer in-charge of technical acquisition Hometown: El Paso, Texas Time in Service: 10 years, two months Hobbies: Military history, politics, foreign affairs Favorite Music: Roots Reggae Last good book read: "Confessions of an Economic Hit Man" by John Perkins How has joining the Air Force impacted your life? The Air Force took me in as a High School graduate and turned me into a contracting professional. If you were chief master sergeant Air Force for one day, how would you change the Air Force? I would stop making changes to the Air Force Airman Battle Uniforms and not allow major command's or wings to supplement Air Force instruction 36-2903. It is difficult to enforce uniform standards when standards vary from wing to wing. Additionally, I would change the way we prepare Airmen for war. I would have all Airmen, officer and enlisted, attend a "combat skills training" immediately after attending basic military training or officer training school. This would ensure that all Airmen have the same basic combat skills needed in today's Air Force. What's your favorite thing about being in the Air Force? The Air Force has allowed me to travel the world and interact with people of different cultures. I have been exposed to different languages, foods and places. I would say the interaction and the exposure, is my favorite "thing." What do you like most about being an Airman? I like being a technical sergeant the most. As a technical sergeant, I am afforded the opportunity to mentor and be mentored by personnel of all ranks. Why selected: "Sergeant Ayala is a poster book example of what we expect from our noncommissioned officers. He steps up to every challenge thrown his way and gives 110 percent to every task he is assigned." - Chief Master Sgt. Jeff Martin, 21st Contracting Squadron superintendent.