Christian Pettinato ’16 is currently completing his Security Systems degree at Farmingdale State College and plans to start a master’s degree in Applied Business Analytics this fall. Christian is an infantryman with the New York Army National Guard. In this role, he serves in a variety of jobs, including hazmat certifier and platoon level radio operator. He is currently serving on Joint Task Force Empire Shield COVID-19 Response in the NYC metro area. He has been working for both task force Long Island and task force NYC by providing both security and logistical support at the various testing sites.
Why did you decide to serve our country by joining the Army National Guard?
Ever since I was a little kid I had wanted to serve in some capacity. I remember being a freshman in Mr. Weavers’ homeroom during Hurricane Sandy when he was put on orders with the Army National Guard to help the community. I thought that was the coolest thing. Now every once in a while I’ll run into Mr.Weavers during training.
What kind of projects have you been involved with lately as our country is fighting the Covid-19 pandemic?
I have worked on two different task forces since being activated on March 18th, both on Long Island and in New York City. They have us working alongside many different federal and state agencies providing a presence and logistical support to aid the doctors and nurses administering the tests.
How do you think Kellenberg prepared you for the challenges you’ve surely encountered as a service member during this unprecedented time?
Kellenberg taught me that with the right work ethic anything can be achieved, as well as that we should never lose sight of our end goals.
Do you have any favorite teachers from your time here at Kellenberg?
Mrs. Finn (’98) was my favorite faculty member. She always believed in me and would always encourage me to strive for what I wanted in life.