355th FW, 355th FSS, individual excellence reaps annual awards

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The 355th Fighter Wing, the 355th Force Support Squadron and five individuals recently earned recognition from Air Combat Command by winning annual awards at the major command level.

In an email sent Nov. 22 by Lt. Gen. William J. Rew, ACC vice commander, to Lt. Gen. Glenn Spears, 12th Air Force commander, the following awards were given to Davis-Monthan AFB:

Col. L. Joseph Brown Equal Opportunity Program - 355th FW

The 355th FW EO team captured this award by spreading the word and providing help via counseling and
briefings as well as ensuring the most up to date EO procedures/guidelines
are being implemented throughout the base.

Airman and Family Readiness Program of the Year - 355th FSS

The 355th FSS AFRC team obtained this award by offering programs such as events for spouses and
children of deployed members, marriage/financial counseling, and
reintegration lines for military members once they return home from
deployments.

Force Support Airman of the Year - Senior Airman Whitney M. Bangen, 12th Air Force

Equal Opportunity Specialist of the Year - Tech. Sgt. Deven L. Gates, 355th FW

Sergeant Gates evaluated EO techniques, diligently processed EO complaints, and developed a
professional development seminar that was presented to First Term Airmen.

Airman and Family Services Flight Manager of the Year - Heidi M. Meisterling, 355th FSS

Mrs. Meisterling earned the award by developing senior/key spouse crisis training, directing 272
pre/post deployment lines and demonstrating leadership with 100-percent compliance
during the Unit Compliance Inspection.

Force Development Flight Manager of the Year - Phillip O. King, 355th FSS

Mr. King managed the Tuition Assistance program, oversaw Career Development Course, Weighted Airman Promotion System, Professional Military Education and Distance Learning Program testing and coordinated college days to promote higher education.

Sustainment Services Flight Specialist of the Year - David Ruiz, 355th FSS

Mr. Ruiz managed the lodging project to upgrade business suites, ensured short notice air crews had a place to stay and
encouraged guests to fill out comment cards and used feedback to tailor operations to meet customer needs.

Congratulations to all award recipients for outstanding service, epitomizing the spirit of Air Force core values and showcasing the 355th FW's ability to develop Airmen while caring for their families.