Lieutenant Colonel Anthony J. Pinto '98

A Journey of Leadership, Resilience, and Heart

Honoring Those Who ServedLieutenant Colonel Anthony J. Pinto '98By Olya Moskalenko

From Barry University’s classrooms to highstakes missions across the globe, retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Anthony J. Pinto '98 embodies service and integrity. A Master Air Battle Manager with more than 5,700 flight hours, 1,800 in combat, Pinto credits Barry for shaping the character that carried him through two decades of military leadership.

“Barry laid the groundwork for everything I’ve accomplished,” Pinto says. “It’s a place that transforms lives, and I’m proud to be part of that legacy.”

Finding His Path

When Pinto first arrived at Barry, the military was nowhere on his horizon. He began as a biology major on a pre-dental track, but early academic struggles forced him to reconsider.

History captured his imagination, offering both challenge and the possibility of law school.

More importantly, campus life revealed his talent for guiding others. He joined the student government, led his fraternity, and eventually served as president of the student body.

“Barry gave me countless opportunities to learn and practice leadership,” he recalls. “From

fraternity president to student government, I gained the skills to work collaboratively, navigate challenges, and lead with integrity.”

Honor societies, such as Phi Alpha Theta and Pi Gamma Mu, recognized his achievements, but financial constraints kept law school out of reach. Graduate study at Valdosta State—and a conversation with an ROTC recruiter—opened an unexpected door. Pinto decided to serve.

High Stakes in the Sky

The decision launched a career that took him to Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, South Korea, Germany, and Alaska. As a senior Air Battle Manager aboard the E-3 AWACS, Pinto commanded and evaluated crews in missions where seconds mattered.

“Service in the military taught me the value of teamwork and resilience,” he says. “You learn to lead in situations where every decision counts.”

Travel broadened his perspective. He remembers climbing the Great Wall of China, exploring Transylvania, and wandering the streets of France. Each experience deepened his respect for cultural diversity and adaptability, qualities he carried into every command post.

 

“FROM FRATERNITY PRESIDENT
TO STUDENT GOVERNMENT, I GAINED
THE SKILLS TO WORK COLLABORATIVELY,
NAVIGATE CHALLENGES, AND LEAD
WITH INTEGRITY.”

 

Principles and Mentors 

Pinto led with three guiding questions: Is it legal? Is it how I would want to be treated? Is it the right thing to do? These simple checks became the compass for tough calls and for mentoring younger officers. He credits the Barry faculty, especially the Vice President for Student Services, Dr. George Wanko, for inspiring that moral clarity. “Dr. Wanko didn’t give up on me when I made mistakes,” Pinto remembers. “He taught me the importance of accountability and resilience. That lesson stayed with me throughout my career.” GIVING

Back, Moving Forward

Now retired, Pinto continues to serve, mentoring young leaders, advocating for veteran-friendly programs, and reconnecting with his alma mater. He attends alumni events and seeks ways to support the next generation's success. “Institutions like Barry have a vital role in helping service members transition to civilian life,” he notes. For current students, his guidance blends practicality with heart: “Study hard and stay focused, but also live a balanced life. Get involved, volunteer, and build relationships. These experiences will shape not just your career but your character.”

A Legacy of Service

After years of professional anonymity required by high-level security clearances, Pinto now proudly embraces his Barry roots. His life reflects the university’s mission: fostering leadership, critical thinking, and a deep commitment to community. “Barry gave me the tools to succeed, and now it’s my turn to give back,” he says. “The university was the foundation for everything I’ve accomplished.” From a young student searching for direction to a decorated officer mentoring future leaders, Lt. Col. Anthony J. Pinto’s journey is a testament to resilience, service, and the transformative power of education, a legacy he continues to champion with pride and purpose.

“SERVICE IN THE MILITARY TAUGHT ME THE VALUE OF TEAMWORK AND RESILIENCE.””

 

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