Sailor in the Spotlight

By MCSA Triniti Lersch, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Ready to respond to emergencies around the clock, whether on the flight-line, in a building, or on the road, NAS Sigonella’s Fire and Emergency Services department maintains our safety onboard NAS Sigonella.

One Sailor who plays a key role in the F&ES ranks is Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Sarahkate Barambangan from Los Angeles, California. She joined the Navy in July 2012.

“The Navy has taught me so many things, and has opened up a lot of opportunities and possibilities for pursuing my future career path,” remarked Barambangan.

During a typical 48 hour shift in the Fire Department, Barambangan will train in the morning and complete daily truck checks in the afternoon. Daily checklists aside, the most enjoyable aspect of the Fire Department is the family-like atmosphere. Barambangan cooks with her fellow shipmates, after which they sit down to eat together at dinnertime.

Outside of her normal work duties, Barambangan is a training petty officer for the Fire Department and the secretary of the base Firefighters Association.

Working in such a demanding field has its rewards, such as saving lives, but it also brings Barambangan enjoyment and pleasure in the small things.

“I enjoy the feeling of adrenaline when fighting fires during an actual emergency,” explains Barambangan. “I also love driving our Oshkosh trucks, it makes me feel cool.”

Outside of work, Barambangan exercises her mind having earned her associate’s degree and is currently taking more college courses at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) for her bachelors. “Sigonella has, by far, the most helpful Navy College Advisors and employees I have ever encountered while in the service,” stated Barambangan.

Barambangan has been stationed onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella for over two years and has traveled to 29 countries, and anticipates visiting more. Of her travels so far, Iceland stands out.

“My favorite part was the glacier hike,” explained Barambangan. “It felt like I was inside the Game of Thrones world. I would recommend that to everyone here in Sigonella who loves adventure and is a Game of Thrones fan.”

Her favorite part about Sicily is the beaches and relishing the clear turquoise water, with Taormina being her number one hot spot in the summer.

Besides traveling, her hobbies include outdoor activities, such as hiking, scuba diving, cliff jumping, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing. Barambangan says she is always up for trying adrenaline inducing adventures and activities.