Photo By Nicole Woods | Director of Operations for the Air Force Audit Agency, Michael V. Barbino, receives a...... read more read more
Subscribe
WASHINGTON – With a little bit of humor and a few tears, co-workers and family members came together to bid farewell to Michael V. Barbino, director of operations for the Air Force Audit Agency (AFAA), during his retirement ceremony at the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) club.
A common thread amongst the farewell speeches and the thoughtful goodbyes was of Barbino’s true professionalism, his friendship, and how much he meant to everyone. Barbino was described as the glue that held the agency together through difficult, challenging and rewarding times. His co-workers and his leaders trusted him.
As the director of operations, Barbino was responsible for planning, developing, and administering audit and support policies and programs throughout the AFAA.
Reflecting on his 41 years of civilian federal service, the master of ceremonies read a few of Barbino’s performance appraisals, which described him as a master at effective and efficient improvements, and as someone who listened attentively and kept the bosses informed. His appraisals referred to him as being the best at handling multi-taskings and having an exceptional knowledge of AFAA and the Air Force. He eagerly accepted all challenges.
Barbino helped design the agency’s recruiting programs; he oversaw the awards process and knew everything about the budget. He dealt with personnel disciplinary issues, developed physical fitness and telework policies, and monitored and oversaw staffing. Barbino’s colleagues considered him someone who treated everyone fairly and always closely followed policy.
Throughout the ceremony Barbino received several gifts, awards and certificates of appreciation, to include the Outstanding Civilian Career Service Award.
During the ceremony, Barbino also received a Certificate of Service for the US Air Force, from Daniel F. McMillan, Auditor General, recognizing him for his many years of faithful and devoted service.
McMillan also issued a Certificate of Appreciation for Barbino’s wife, Pat, in recognition of her support as a spouse.
As the awards presentation concluded, Barbino’s co-worker of 21 years, Jerry Kleeman, a staff auditor, took the floor to share a few words of his own.
“You are one person I will never forget. You are open, friendly, and we all appreciate your expertise, integrity, dedication and loyalty to the agency. I wish you all the good things that life has to offer, now and in the future,” said Kleeman.
“This is the end of an era. I feel like I’m loosing a friend. It has been a distinct pleasure and honor knowing and working with you over the years – you will truly be missed,” he added.
Ava Jefferson, one of Barbino’s branch chiefs said, “He has truly been more than just the chief knowledge officer to me, the go-to person; he is an unbelievable man, a friend, confidant and he’s been my mentor. Mr. Barbino, I just have to say that you have truly left a legacy, not just in the agency but definitely a dear place in my and my husband’s heart. It will be tough without you.”
Leaving his mark and a legacy at the Air Force Audit Agency, Barbino concluded his retirement ceremony with saying, “The Air Force Audit Agency is a family, they took care of me and it was very meaningful for us to be associated with an organization like that.”
Barbino thanked everyone in attendance, from the auditor generals, retirees and military assistants, to his co-workers and branch chiefs, who all supported him throughout his career.
“I appreciate the guidance, support and friendship over the years. I worked with some very special people who know what they’re doing and helped make my job easier,” said Barbino.
Lastly, and most important to Barbino, he thanked his friends and family, giving gifts, flowers and hugs to his children and grandchildren.
“I enjoyed it very much and I enjoyed the people I worked with, you will always be special in my heart; Remember to live, laugh and love, those are the key things and I thank you so much for sharing this moment with me, I wish you all the best in the future.”
| Date Taken: | 09.30.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 10.27.2014 10:58 |
| Story ID: | 146146 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, DC, US |
| Web Views: | 218 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Civilian retires after 41 years of exceptional service; leave legacy, by Nicole Woods, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
LEAVE A COMMENT