In the Spotlight

42 Years of Service to Naval Air Station Sigonella

Name: Angelo Pavone

Command: NAS Sigonella Department: Safety/ Fire and Emergency Services

Angelo was born in Sicily and spent his school years in Cape Town South Africa till 1975. He came back to his home land the following year to continue his studies at the University of Catania. He was attracted by employment opportunities offered by the U.S. Naval Facility and decided to take an offering as firefighter on 31 July 1978.

His encounter with his wife Maria made him decide to apply for a job that did not have shift work. He was promoted to Shipment Clerk for the Supply department on 31 July 1981. He then proceeded with another promotion to MVRO Clerk for the Security department on 01 May 1982. His sound ambition made him progress to payroll Technician for the Comptroller department commencing 01 August 1984.

“It is my sincere privilege to join your loved ones, friends, aviation professionals, and military service members in congratulating you on your well-deserved retirement. We celebrate your 42 years of loyal service as a Fireman and Safety Specialist and the contributions you have made to NAS Sigonella’s Fire and Safety programs.” - Capt. Kepper Pickard, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer

An opportunity arose for him to be able to return to his first job at Sigonella as firefighter and he immediately took a promotion as fire inspector for the Fire Department on 15 October 1990 where he worked as installation fire liaison officer till 31 March 2008.

Working for the safety of others prompted his desire to proceed to the safety world where he was promoted to safety specialist commencing 01 April 2008.

His successful career at the Naval Air Station has earned his retirement after 42 years of loyal service.

“I can express my experience to the U.S. Navy with one word: Gratitude. Gratitude for having given me the possibility of raising a family comfortably. Gratitude for having given me the possibility of working with so many wonderful people. Gratitude for having obtained many friends with whom I am still in contact worldwide. Gratitude for having given me the opportunity of living this wonderful experience. Gratitude for having all of your here today. Grazie for being present today and arrivederci.” -Angelo Pavone, retired

His family is composed of Maria, his son Francesco married to Isabel and Cristina who is currently employed for NAVSUP HQ Sigonella and set to marry Dario shortly.

Favorite hobbies are wine making and hiking on Mount Etna.