LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE -- Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. – Space Base Delta 3 welcomes Master Sgt. Ryan Gava as the new first sergeant for the Delta at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
Gava brings years of experience to his new assignment; he was the previous Space Systems Command 1st Sgt. for two and a half years before being selected for his new position.
The first sergeant role is critical to the execution of a unit’s mission. They serve as the commander’s advisor on personnel programs, career progression, family needs, financial matters, Professional Military Education (PME) and recognition. A 1st Sgt., or “shirt” performs quality force reviews of performance reports, awards, decorations, promotions, classifications, disciplinary actions, and other items as deemed necessary by the unit commander.
Gava said, when a young Airman or Guardian hears “you have to report to the first sergeants office,” these words can instill fear, or dread, but for Gava, he sees the role as someone who provides information for the readiness, health, morale, welfare, and quality-of-life issues within their organization.
“Being a first sergeant is a 24-hours a day, 7 days a week position,” Gava expressed. “It is not always disciplinary in nature, I often get to help an Airman or Guardian when they need it the most.”
Gava is proud of his military up-bringing and considers serving to be the “family business.” His father and brother all joined and answered the call to serve our Nation, something that Gava felt was also his calling and joined right out of high school.
“Being a first sergeant epitomizes the highest qualities of an Air Force senior noncommissioned officer,” said Gava. “I am proud to serve. Being a 1st Sgt., is more than a title; it is a calling that requires a heart that is diamond sharp.” (referring to the lozenge, or “diamond” on their rank insignia which symbolizes the time-honored special duty).
Just as joining the military was his calling, Gava said becoming a first sergeant was one of the most rewarding career moves a person can make. “It helps me be a better Airman for our members and it pushes me to be better in every aspect of my life.”
The Gava family call the local area home, when asked what he does in his free time, the father of three, said “I love spending time with my family. My kids keep us busy, they are very active in sports, love going to the beach, and participating in community activities.”
Gava follows in the steps of Master Sgt. Edward Caldwell, Space Base Delta 3’s previous first sergeant who recently relocated to Aviano AFB, Italy, with his family. If you want to reach the first sergeant to discuss any important personnel matters, his phone is always on. He can be reached at 310-648-0671.