2010 Annual Awards

Staff Sgt. Mark Crotsley, Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard, salutes the folded flag placed at the foot of the Battlefield Cross durign the 2010 Annual Awards Banquet on Jan. 29th held at the Wigwam Spa and Resort in Litchfield Park, Ariz. The cross is erected to show respect to fallen Airman on the battlefield. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Tracie Forte)

2010 Annual Awards

Published Feb. 4, 2011
By Airman David Owsianka
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- The 56th Fighter Wing Annual Awards Ceremony honors the best and brightest Luke Air Force Base Airmen who have earned distinction throughout 2010. The ceremony was held at the Wigwam Spa and Resort Saturday.

There were 11 awards for Airmen and civilian employees who were recognized for their hard work and excellence.

"The individuals are highlighted for their contributions to Luke's outstanding success," said Master Sgt. Dale Goods, 56th Operations Group first sergeant. "Their efforts are one reason we are able to have the motto: "Thunderbolts ... Dawn of a new age." They are truly the best of the best."

All of the nominated Airmen received recognition and tribute for their hard work, dedicated service and exceptional level of professionalism.

"It was amazing to receive the award," said Senior Airman Shaun Houser, 56th Comptroller Squadron financial analyst. "At first, I didn't believe they said my name. I was in shock. It felt unreal as I walked up to receive the award."

"I had great mentorship from great leaders," Airman Houser said. "If they hadn't given me good direction, there is no way I would have received this award."

The awards ceremony allows Airmen to be recognized for their accomplishments throughout the previous year.

"Congratulations to all the Airmen who walked across the stage tonight as the best of Luke, the largest fighter wing in the Air Force," said Brig. Gen. J.D. Harris, 56th Fighter Wing commander. "You have accomplished great things this past year. I expect to see some of you winning at the next level because all of you are exceptional Airmen.

"I want to thank the supervisors who were watching you throughout the year and recognized your outstanding performance. It wasn't just the way they wrote up your report on what they saw, but they provided the tools you needed to be successful. They are an important reason why you did so well and are now being recognized."