Who has best maintenance group in the Air Force?

  • Published
  • By Col. Algene Fryer
  • 56th MXG commander
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  This rally cry, created by Col. Algene Fryer, 56th Maintenance Group commander, was a self-fulfilling prophecy when the 56th Fighter Wing found out  they were the recipients of the 2006 Air Force Maintenance Daedalian Award.  The Maintenance Daedalian Award recognizes the unit that best met the objective of providing safe, serviceable aircraft to support the flying mission. 

Collectively, during fiscal year 2006, the 56th MXG generated more than 29,000 sorties that produced more than 40,000 flying hours toward training the world's best F-16 fighter pilots and maintainers. 

"I'm extremely proud of the outstanding work and unwavering dedication the men and women in our group and wing exert each day to accomplish our mission," Colonel Fryer said. "They truly represent the best of the best that the Air Force has to offer." 

In recognition of outstanding achievement, the 56th MXG will recognize their top performers during the Maintenance Professional of the Year Banquet March 3. This year's theme is "Best in the Business." A total of 19 awards will be given to include recognizing the accomplishments from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2006, of 15 enlisted, three civilians and one officer. 

This year, 151 individuals were nominated from the more than 3,000 people that make up the 56th MXG to compete for the prestigious award of being the best of the best in the business.  In addition to individual awards, a teamwork award will be presented to the squadron that best demonstrates team spirit. 

Lt. Gen. Donald Wetekam, U.S. Air Force Installations, Logistics and Mission Support Headquarters deputy chief of staff, will be the guest speaker at the maintenance pro banquet. General Wetekam is responsible for leadership, management and integration of Air Force civil engineering, security forces, logistics readiness, supply, transportation and aircraft missile maintenance. 

The banquet will be at the 310th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, Hangar 913. Cocktails are served at 5 p.m. with the banquet beginning at 5:30 p.m. Battle Dress Uniform or flight suit for military (no hats) and neat casual attire for civilians is appropriate for the evening. 

All Thunderbolts are welcome. Tickets are $15 per person and must be purchased by Thursday. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, call the maintenance squadron command section or Senior Master Sgt. Angelo Huertas at (623) 856-8812