AAFES employee earns top associate honors

  • Published
  • By Radean Brown
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
He may wear purple, but his heart belongs to the blue.

Every work day for the past six years, Jacob McKibben Brown, Army and Air Force Exchange Service employee, has dressed in his bright purple "Popeye's" uniform shirt, reported to his job and worked to prove he's committed to providing exceptional service to the Thunderbolt community.

Brown's strong work ethic and personal dedication haven't gone unnoticed. He's been recognized five times in the past six years for an AAFES honors award, said Matt Buan, Luke AAFES general manager, and most recently, Brown earned the AAFES western region, 2006 Worldwide Outstanding Associate with a Disability Award.

"Jacob is a hard-working individual who has never been absent or late," said Buan. "He comes to work every day with a smile and positive attitude. That, in itself, is fantastic."

As a Popeye's food service worker, Brown works behind the scenes to ensure Luke members are served tasty, professionallyprepared fried chicken. Although challenged by cerebral palsy, Brown's supervisors say he is a dedicated worker who doesn't shy away from hard work. He maintains and operates "batter fry" restaurant equipment
single-handedly, which is a monumental task involving frying huge amounts of flourdipped chicken. To perform this job, Brown must stand in a hot, hectic kitchen that can quickly heat up during peak sales or a busy lunch rush. He must also keep his work station clean and sanitized.

Baun said his staff also admires Brown's effort and persistence in getting to work. Even though he must wear a leg brace, it doesn't stop him from walking four miles a day to and from his bus stop.

"Jacob deserves this award," said Ron Novotny, food court manager. "He's a team player, and is very proficient. He does what it takes to take care of the customers."

For taking first-place honors, Brown received a $200 AAFES gift certificate and a plaque.