Civil Engineering Squadron shines at headquarters

  • Published
  • By Deborah Marie Gibson
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Air Education and Training Command recently declared the 56th Civil Engineer Squadron the recipient of five 2006 AETC civil engineering awards.

"These awards signify the squadron's exceptional performance in the many aspects
of Luke's civil engineering," said James Fitzpatrick, 56th CES deputy. "Our men and women have worked hard to maintain exceptional standards."

The 56th CES Housing Flight was awarded the Brig. Gen. Michael A. McAuliffe Award.
The prompt execution of the demolition project which was completed two years
ahead of schedule is one of housing's accomplishments. The flight also ensured the
security of 730 dorm residents by installing a $225k state-of-the-art surveillance system.

The 56th CES Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight received the Senior Master Sgt. Gerald J. Stryzak Award and helped defeat explosive devices in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"Our explosive ordnance flight is comprised of experts who have completed more than 1,000 missions and 3,230 man days in Iraq and Afghanistan; many days were spent under direct attack and enemy rocket-propelled grenades," Mr. Fitzpatrick said.

At home, they responded to 43 in-flight emergencies and recycled 817 tons of scrap from the Barry M. Goldwater Range.

In addition, three civil engineering individuals were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Chief Master Sgt. Robert Buchanan, chief enlisted manager, earned the Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Ahearn Enlisted Leadership Award. Senior Airman Elizabeth Spradley, explosive ordnance disposal journeyman, received the Maj. Gen. Eugene A. Lupia Award. Civilian Emmanuel Fontaine, mechanical engineer, attained the Society of American Military Engineers Newman Medal.

"All three are dedicated professionals who have demonstrated exemplary service," Mr. Fitzpatrick said. "Their professionalism, expertise and active involvement ensure that Luke's civil engineering mission and goals are consistently being met in an effective and efficient manner."

In addition to the many accolades received at headquarters, the 56th CES was also runner-up for the Air Force Outstanding Civil Engineer Award.