12AF recognizes Airmen

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Eric Petosky
  • 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern)
Three members of the Mountain Home Air Force Base team were honored for their outstanding performance in 2008 during the Twelfth Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Outstanding Performer of the Year banquet here March 11.

Senior Airman Roy Mcallister, 366th Logistics Readiness Squadron refueling maintenance technician, received the award in the Airman category. He was recognized for delivering 468,000 gallons of JP-8 to 207 aircraft with a 16-minute average response time. He also conducted 125-point inspections on 25 refueling vehicles daily, achieving a phenomenal 98 percent mission capable rate and eclipsing the Air Combat Command standard by eight percent. Finally, SrA Mcallister implemented a refueling unit rotation program, saving 512 man hours and $67,000 annually.

Master Sgt. Christopher Fowler, 366th LRS first sergeant, received the award in the first sergeant category. He was recognized for successfully managing the careers of 360 Airmen by providing guidance on matters of leadership, military justice, individual career decision, financial matters, and much more. He provided food and leadership to 2,000 Airmen through three Operational Readiness Exercises and a six-day Operational Readiness Inspection. Finally, as mentor to Airman Leadership School, he devoted 35 hours leading a class of 31.

Mr. William Russell, 366th LRS vehicle management and analysis manager, received the award in the intermediate grade civilian category. Over the year, he sustained a 96 percent mission capable rate with a 30 percent manning shortage, surpassing the Air Combat Command standard by six percent. He managed the implementation of the digitized record plan, scanning and filing over 12,000 records. Finally, as fleet manager, he oversaw the disposition of 56 excess vehicles, minimizing Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service.

The award presentation coincides with the weeklong Total Force Commanders' Conference here March 9-13, during which more than 50 civic leaders, commanders, and command chiefs discussed a range of issues affecting the command and the Air Force.

"Our organization is geographically separated, so having the opportunity to sit down for a week of face-to-face communication among commanders and command chiefs, as well as our civic leaders, is invaluable," said Lt. Gen. Norman Seip, Commander, 12th Air Force (AFSOUTH). "Additionally, this conference allows for an opportunity to recognize the nine outstanding Airmen and civilians of Twelfth Air Force who have epitomized 'excellence in all we do' over the course of the year."

"Together, we will celebrate the accomplishments of our team, and pave the way for continued success in 2009," he added.

The topics discussed during the Total Force conference included a discussion of current operations across the command and in the U.S. Southern Command area of focus. Senior leaders also discussed efforts to support Airmen and their families, safety, fitness, new policies and current manning challenges across the Total Force.

"Total Force Integration capitalizes on the inherent strengths of the different Air Force components," said General Seip. "The Air Force team of Active Duty Airmen, Air National Guardsmen and Air Force Reservists provide the Joint Force with highly skilled, experienced and dedicated Airmen prepared to accomplish any mission. Total Force Integration enhances our combat and joint enabling capabilities today and well into the future."

12th Air Force (AFSOUTH) comprises seven active-duty wings, 14 Air Reserve and Guard units, and two direct reporting units in the western and midwestern United States. The command is also responsible for six forward operating locations, and civil and military engagements in Central and South America as well as the Caribbean.

During the Outstanding Performer of the Year ceremony, the command awarded nine Airmen and civilians with the 2009 Outstanding Performer of the Year award. The Airman, non-commissioned officer, senior NCO and First Sergeant category winners will go on to compete for Air Force-level annual awards.

Recipients of the 2009 Outstanding Performer of the Year award are:
Airman Category
Senior Airman Roy L. Mcallister, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho
Noncommissioned Officer Category
Staff Sgt. Ryan K. Oliver, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas
Senior Noncommissioned Officer Category
Senior Master Sgt. Brian L. Rogers, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla.
First Sergeant Category
Master Sgt. Christopher S. Fowler, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho
Company Grade Officer Category
Capt. Daniel C. Werner, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M.
Field Grade Officer Category
Maj. William H. Jelks, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.
Junior Civilian Category
Mr. Troy C. Huggins, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.
Intermediate Civilian Category
Mr. William C. Russell, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho
Senior Civilian Category
Mr. David Laurence, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas