Linn Aubrey, Senior Airman
Unit: 59th Laboratory Squadron, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas
Duty Title: Medical Laboratory Journeyman, Lackland Blood Donor Center
Senior Airman Aubrey was selected as Air Education and Training Command Airman of the Year. As shift-leader, she artfully led a team of 40 personnel that collected, processed and shipped 53 blood shipments in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. Airman Aubrey organized 52 blood drives with over 16,000 Air Force basic trainee donors that supplied 27% of DoD’s wartime blood quota. Her expertise in blood drive operations was vital. While training Air Expeditionary Force members who subsequently ran emergency blood drives in Balad Air Base, Iraq, saving countless lives. Airman Aubrey brilliantly coordinated infectious disease testing of 500 platelet samples from Iraq, ultimately reducing untested whole blood transfusions by 60% at the 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group. Airman Aubrey excelled in 5-level upgrade training, scoring over 93% on three end-of-course exams and was coined by her wing commander for outstanding performance. She was highly involved in the base and local San Antonio communities. Finally, Airman Aubrey sponsored and arranged accommodations for seven World War II demonstration pilots that performed at the 2006 Lackland Air Show for 400,000 guests, paying homage to our military heritage.
Tammy L. Brangard-Hern, Senior Master Sergeant
Unit: Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas
Duty Title: Supt, Assignment Policy and Procedures
Senior Master Sergeant Brangard-Hern was named Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. She led the Assignment Personnel Services Delivery Transformation initiatives, Major Command (MAJCOM) centralization and Defense Integrated Military Human Resource System (DIMHRS) efforts. Sergeant Brangard-Hern devised the self-service web-based assignment preference update, where Airmen can now update their assignment choices anywhere, anytime. She identified 14 processes for central management from nine MAJCOMs to headquarters of the Air Force Personnel Center and authored 15 assignment system requirements for DIMHRS. As a strategic planning committee member, she crafted the Permanent Change of Station (PCS) reduction initiatives changing manning ceilings, greater time on station requirements and local hiring procedures to reduce unnecessary PCS moves and expenditures, saving $43.5M. As president of a 250-member Top 3 organization, she led the first-ever Team Randolph multi-command Senior Noncommissioned Officer Induction ceremony for 300, the Enlisted Festival for 2K and Meals-on-Wheels for 60 shut-ins. Finally, she was the recipient of the John L. Levitow Award at the Senior NCO Academy in July, 2006.
Ronald A. Colaninno, Senior Master Sergeant
Unit: 514th Security Forces Squadron, McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey
Duty Title: NCOIC, Security Forces Training
Senior Master Sergeant Colaninno was named Air Force Reserve Command Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. He Deployed for 186 days to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. As Security Forces Manager, he led 112 assigned airmen responsible for the protection of over $2 billion in operational combat assets and 1,000 Air Force personnel. Sergeant Colaninno trained and led a team of 18 Security Forces Airmen for an offensive operation resulting in the interdiction and capture of two armed Taliban suicide bombers who attempted an assault on the Bagram Air Field Main Gate. He created a plan to merge Air Force and Army surveillance systems into a unified control center resulting in a $1.5 million electronic security systems upgrade. He led site survey missions with Army leadership to Balad Air Base, Iraq, to establish facility designs, concepts of operations and security system integration for Bagram Air Field’s first ever Joint Defense Operations Center. As Deputy Convoy Commander for the wing’s humanitarian relief operations, he ensured the safe delivery and distribution of 50 boxes of clothing, school and medical supplies to over 300 local Afghan villagers.
Jeremy L. Griffin, Technical Sergeant
Unit: 45th Space Wing Civil Engineer Squadron, Patrick Air Force Base, Florida
Duty Title: Fire Protection Station Chief
Technical Sergeant Jeremy L. Griffin was named the Air Force Space Command Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Air Force Space Command Military Fire Officer of the Year. He deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, for 125 days where he initiated a firefighter volunteer program at the Air Force Theater Hospital, was recognized for treating an Iraqi police officer who had been shot several times and
participated in a Relay for Life to “Stomp out Cancer”. At Patrick Air Force Base he has overseen the fire department volunteer effort for Airmen Against Drunk Driving, successfully directed and mitigated medical, structural fire and crash emergency responses limiting the impact on the military and civilian populations, the Air Force and the Department of Defense. He currently attends Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University working on a Bachelors of Science degree in Management. He has consistently made the Dean’s List, currently holds a 3.8 G.P.A. and graduates in
December, 2007. He is very active in the community and was recognized by a local elementary school for his assistance in their advanced reading program and by the Bishop of his church for his youth ministry in Sunday school.
Matthew J. Hefti, Staff Sergeant
Unit: 775th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah
Duty Title: Explosive Ordnance Disposal Craftsman
Staff Sergeant Hefti was named Air Force Materiel Command’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his engagement in 256 combat missions and 74 improvised explosive device operations in Iraq. His combat experience and polished communication skills led to his selection as one of only three Air Force representatives for the Secretary of Defense’s “Why We Serve” Speakers Bureau Tour where he trumpeted air power to thousands of viewers during 13 live television and radio events describing the Air Force’s warrior ethos and bolstering support for Airmen engaged around the globe. In addition, he spent 33 days at the White House and provided EOD support to the Secret Service, protecting the President of the United States and First Family. Furthermore, he led the disposal of the last Titan IV rocket motor in the United States’ arsenal that brought the Nation in compliance with the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. He was a Distinguished Graduate from Airman Leadership School and earned two separate Associate Degrees from the Community College of the Air Force. He is an active volunteer with his church and local VFW.
Matthew Hulsman, Senior Airman
Unit: 3rd Civil Engineer Squadron, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska
Duty Title: Explosive Ordnance Disposal Journeyman
Duties in Afghanistan routinely sent Senior Airman Hulsman outside the wire to disarm roadside bombs and reveal hidden weapons bundles. He flawlessly cleared Improvised Explosive Devices from 2,500 miles of roadway, ensuring safe travel of U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He repelled eight Taliban attacks during 12 combat missions. He protected the American image by blowing up 7 disabled U.S. vehicles. This denied the Taliban use of the vehicles as an anti-U.S. propaganda campaign. He conducted several joint operations with the U.S. Army to eliminate nearly 100 threats. Senior Airman Hulsman led a $164,000 robotics upgrade to strengthen the 3rd Wings anti-terrorism/force protection program. Although he spent half of the year deployed, he continues to further his military knowledge. He completed the National Incident Management course, two FEMA classes and several other courses. Most recently, he demonstrated Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot capabilities at a local hockey game, thrilling 5,000 fans and has volunteered 36 hours to assist 800 people during the Special Olympics. He is a recipient of the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal for sustained civilian and military support.
Sachiko D. Jones, Master Sergeant
Unit: 423rd Service Squadron, RAF Alconbury, United Kingdom
Duty Title: Lodging Manager
Master Sergeant Jones was named United States Air Forces in Europe Services Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for 2006. While deployed to Ali Base, Iraq, for 147 days, she directed a $1.4 million Operation IRAQI FREEDOM deployed bed down, consisting of a $560k linen contract, 245 tents and 1,500 beds. She expertly reengineered previous Ali Base bed down plan and attained 100% bed space accountability lodging 5,000 transient warfighters directly contributing to the Operation IRAQI FREEDOM mission. Her leadership of a 24-person facility upgrade team identified 153 unserviceable items and arranged for their donation to less fortunate Iraqi’s. She was formally recognized for orchestrating the first-ever coalition leadership luncheon. Her efforts helped feed over 50 local Sheiks and coalition leaders. She wrote and implemented a mortuary affairs plan and trained 12 staff members resulting in her squadron earning an overall Operational Readiness Inspection “Excellent” rating. Additionally, she developed a $1.1 million premier lodging operation plan, supporting three locations, five buildings and over 100 rooms. Sergeant Jones was essential in standing up the wing’s Military Equal Opportunity program. Her hard work and dedication helped earn the USAFE 2006 Military Equal Opportunity program of the year.
Jonathan C. McCoy, Staff Sergeant
Unit: 24th Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina
Duty Title: Special Tactics Pararescueman
Staff Sergeant McCoy was named Air Force Special Operations Command’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor and a second Bronze Star Medal, Sergeant McCoy demonstrated courage and leadership during Operations ENDURING and IRAQI FREEDOM. The point man in a high risk compound assault, he fiercely fought hand-to-hand defeating an enemy guard and enabling the capture of a high value target. Twice he deliberately risked his life braving deadly small arms fire to treat and evacuate severely injured teammates. Part of a sniper element, Sergeant McCoy established climbing routes over 15-foot compound walls allowing access for the assault force. Commanding a 17-man joint Combat Search and Rescue team, he led a daring, complex mission recovering the crew of a downed helicopter submerged in an Iraqi lake. Following a vicious suicide bombing, he volunteered at a combat surgical hospital leading a six-man trauma team attributed with saving two lives. Additionally, Sergeant McCoy volunteered with the North Carolina ‘Partnership for Children’ Campaign, a public prevention program to reduce child abuse.
David J. Orvosh, Staff Sergeant
Unit: 21st Special Tactics Squadron, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina
Duty Title: Combat Control Journeyman
Staff Sergeant David “Squish” J. Orvosh was named Pope Air Force Base’s Airmen of the Year and Air Force Special Operations Command Airmen of the Year. David seeks every opportunity to deploy; he finished a five month deployment to Afghanistan in early 2006. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for his heroic actions during a 107mm mortar barrage on the base that was stopped by his rapid response with close air support and crushed any follow-on attacks. After minimum time at home, he deployed back to Afghanistan. Again, he was sole Air Force member assigned to an Army Special Forces team. His team relentlessly pursued Taliban along the Pakistan border to deny the enemy any sanctuary. After a short break, he quickly refitted and deployed to Iraq where he worked as an integral operator of the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Force. Staff Sergeant Orvosh employed precision airpower within densely populated areas and tallied impressive battlefield effects including the capture of hundreds of militants and confirmed kills with both his personal weapon and hand grenades. Today, he leads heavy weapons, convoy, urban and counter-ambush training on Ft. Bragg ranges sharing what he has learned and ensuring upcoming Combat Controllers are ready to deliver lethal airpower anywhere.
Richard W. Rose, Jr., Staff Sergeant
Unit: 1st Combat Camera Squadron, Charleston AFB, South Carolina
Duty Title: Aerial Combat Photographer
Staff Sergeant Rose was named Air Mobility Command’s Airman of the Year. A proven combat warrior, Sergeant Rose was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic actions while deployed to Iraq. During his deployment, he transmitted more than 4,000 photographs highlighting Coalition and Iraqi forces. His efforts provided Defense Department senior leaders a “boots on the ground” perspective of battlefield operations in Iraq. While attached to the 101st Airborne Division, he participated in 30 air assault grab and destroy missions where he captured photos and video used for legal and intelligence operations. He was also credited with returning fire on insurgents while covering an Explosive Ordnance Disposal patrol that came under fire in Al Yusufiyah, Iraq. His quick reaction saved U.S. lives. Although deployed for 220 days in 2006, he still found time to mentor 34 local, fatherless children. Additionally, while deployed he gathered and distributed school supplies to an Iraqi school, helping foster goodwill between the Coalition and Muslim communities.
Lawrence B. Taylor, Senior Master Sergeant
Unit: 270th Air Traffic Control Squadron, Klamath Falls, Oregon
Duty Title: Air Traffic Control Tower Chief Controller
Senior Master Sergeant Taylor volunteered to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was fully certified to control aircraft an amazing two days after arrival. He facilitated over 400 daily operations in the Area of Responsibility’s (AOR’s) most critical air traffic control tower, moving over 100,000 passengers, 20,000 tons of cargo and over 4,000 military flights with zero mishaps, providing maximum efficiency. He alerted Iraqis to unauthorized aircraft landing in the opposite direction of arriving planes – averting cataclysmic mishap. He overcame a total communication failure to expedite the Secretary of Defense’s Baghdad departure by obtaining clearance and eliminating days. He supported operations implementing an Iraqi Parliament session, sterilized airspace and secured the airfield environment. Sergeant Taylor created an alternate mobile Air Traffic Control facility providing critical back-up control capability at Baghdad International Airport. He was successful in the procurement of a $52,000 “Baker Life Chute” Tower escape system – a safety-critical emergency exit. He diligently completed 80 percent of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association’s National Labor College Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labor Studies. In addition, he compassionately gave funds to families otherwise unable to afford veterinary care for their pets at a local clinic.
Geoffrey M. Welsh, Staff Sergeant
Unit: 4th Security Forces Squadron, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina
Duty Title: Military Working Dog Handler
Staff Sergeant Welsh was named Air Combat Command’s Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the Year. He deployed with the U.S. Army to Forward Operating Base (FOB) Loyalty, Iraq, and conducted over 100 combat patrols encompassing Baghdad and Sadr City. His participation in these patrols led to his K-9 discovering over 100 anti-personnel mines, 30 rifles, 15 rocket propelled grenades, 10 machine guns and 3 armed improvised explosive devises (IEDs). During an attack on an Army supply convoy, Sergeant Welsh engaged in a 45-minute firefight, killing 12 attacking insurgents while establishing a safe retrograde. While at FOB Freedom, he rendered immediate first aid and medical evacuation security for his platoon sergeant who was hit by sniper fire, thus saving the sergeant’s life. His entry control point searches netted 250 cell phones, 1,000 media storage devices, 20 digital cameras and a base map. Striving for warrior knowledge, Sergeant Welsh completed the Combat Lifesaver, Military Operations in Urban Terrain, IEDs and Bomb Threat Management Courses. An active volunteer, Sergeant Welsh mentored 33 “at risk” youth at the Dillard Academy. In conjunction with Army Civil Affairs and Iraqi Police, he distributed medical and school supplies for Iraqi children.
For questions concerning the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year program contact Lynette Cross at
lcross@afa.org or call 1-800-727-3337 ext. 4807;
Air Force point of contact is HQ AFPC/DPPRS. For a more detailed history of the Outstanding Airman Award,
click here. |
