The Ourique family: Three generations at Lajes Field Published Jan. 8, 2012 By Eduardo Lima 65th Air Base Wing Public Affairs LAJES FIELD, Azores -- Since American armed forces arrived on Terceira Island during World War II, Portuguese local nationals have been working alongside U.S. service members to get the mission done. Senhor Rodrigo Jorge Costa Ourique, an Agualva native, comes from three generations of family members who've worked at Lajes Field. Senhor Ourique began working at the base in June 2009 at the Ocean View snack bar and has held other jobs at the Base Exchange and Outdoor Recreation office before he moved to his present occupation as a Lajes lodging clerk. His father, Senhor Agnelo Ourique, a firefighter at the Lajes Fire Department since 1986, started working for the U.S. Air Force at Lajes in 1978. Senhor Rodrigo Ourique's grandfathers also both worked at the base. His paternal grandfather, Joaquim Ourique, worked at the 65th Civil Engineer Squadron from 1982 to 1990, while his maternal grandfather, Francisco Costa, worked at the NCO Club for 43 years before he retired. "I like my job and enjoy working with my co-workers and supervisors, as well as other people in the building," said Senhor Ourique. "During the summer months we are busier than normal due to the movement of military members, but even with an increased workload I still enjoy working at Lajes lodging," he said. Ourique loves to work with and repair computers, but now he just wants to give his best to his present job. Ourique is a very active member in his community. He's part of the marching band of Agualva, where he plays the clarinet and also participates in the dancing groups during the Mardi Gras season, following in the footsteps of his ancestors. Ourique also plays golf, just like his father, and enjoys going out with friends and playing music. The dedication of people like Ourique, along with his father and grandfathers, has made Lajes Field a better place to live and work.