Paths Cross Again for Teacher and Student

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Dale Shade | Lt. Col. Dominick Nati, 28th Combat Aviation Brigade executive officer, poses with Col. Dennis Hunsinger, deputy commander of the 407th Air Expeditionary Group, and Col. Louis Danner, commander of the 407th AEG. Nati had previosuly served as Hunsinger's training, advising and counseling officer, or TAC, at the Pennsylvania Military Academy, where Nati pinned Hunsinger as a second lieutenant on his graduation day more than 20 years ago.  

IRAQ

11.21.2009

Courtesy Story

28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade

IRAQ - An ordinary day in Iraq turned extraordinary for Lt. Col. Dominick Nati, 28th Combat Aviation Brigade executive officer, when he inadvertently crossed paths with a Soldier from his past, Lt. Col. Dennis Hunsinger, deputy commander of the 407th Air Expeditionary Group.

More than 20 years ago, Nati served as Hunsinger's Training, Advising and Counseling, or TAC, officer at the Pennsylvania Military Academy where Nati pinned Hunsinger as a second lieutenant on his graduation day.

Hunsinger was touring the Air Force area of responsibility escorted by Lt. Col. Steve Carson, commander of the Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, when the name "Dom Nati" was mentioned as their point of contact with the 28th CAB. To his surprise he learned his mentor from so many years ago was soon to be a part of his life again.

Hunsinger, who was soon scheduled to be promoted to colonel, invited Nati to attend the ceremony. In his address to the audience of primarily Air Force personnel, Nati stated, "I am proud to know Dennis, he was a good Soldier and is a better Airman and I find some gratitude in the fact that the training given to him many years ago was not in vain."

Nati has continued to serve in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard while Hunsinger has served in the Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve, and Air Force Reserve.

• Date Taken: 11.21.2009
• Date Posted: 11.27.2009 09:12
• Story ID: 42069
• Location: IQ