AFSA recognizes Luke Airmen Published Sept. 7, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Phillip Butterfield 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. - -- Receiving the Air Force Sergeants Association Airman of the Year recognition is a benchmark in any Airman's career, and two Thunderbolts were honored for their accomplishments. Staff Sgt. Jesus Canales, 56th Services Squadron Honor Guard NCO in-charge, and Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Spradley, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal technician, have been selected for this award. Some of Sergeant Canale's distinct accomplishments are to oversee Air Education and Training Command's 2007 Best Specialized Program and Luke's Honor Guard. "Sergeant Canales is one of those individuals who stand out from the crowd," said Maj. William Manely, 56th SVS commander. "I'm not surprised at all that the Air Force Sergeants Association recognized him as the best of the best." Sergeant Spradley's distinct accomplishments include being selected to protect President George Bush while he toured New Mexico, Florida and Mississippi. She also won the Maj. Gen. Eugene Lupia Award for 2006. "Sergeant Spradley epitomizes the ultimate Airman," said Lt. Col. Anthony Ramage, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron commander. "In situations ranging from front-line combat operations to working with local area school children, her attitude and energy inspire those around her. We're proud to call her a Dragonslayer!"