944th Member Selected as 2011 Reserve Officer's Association Outstanding Junior Officer

  • Published
  • By Capt. Elizabeth Magnusson
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  One of the 944th Fighter Wings very own was announced as the 2011 Reserve Officer's Association (ROA) Outstanding Junior Officer selected by the Chief of Air Force Reserve.

Capt. Ryan L. Avery, 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron, was recognized for his outstanding achievements and performance both while deployed and on duty at his home station.

"I am very humbled by my selection for this award," said Avery. "It feels good to be recognized but I know that my success is only due to the outstanding group of individuals that I worked with in the Logistics Readiness Squadron."

Avery has accomplished many things throughout 2011 but his dedication and high standards are what led him to be selected as the Outstanding Junior Officer.

"Capt. Avery is a standout performer", said Lt Col Mike Boutet, 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander. "He tackles the tough and sensitive challenges with thoroughness and finesse--for example, during his deployment to Afghanistan, he was the wing vice commanders go-to guy for several tough crisis in the wing."

He doesn't only step up during deployments, Avery volunteered as the team leader for AFSO 21 event showcased at AFRC Logistics Readiness Squadron conference which got 10th Air Force leadership visibility. Avery also managed a new IDP integration with the 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron ensuring the high visibility program meet both Wings requirements.

Avery is relentless in his support of his fellow Airmen. He improved the wing deployment procedures allowing members to receive their benefits in a more timely manner. He also overhauled the fitness regiment and increased his units physical condition to a 92% fit test passed, one of the highest in the Wing.

Avery not only sets an example through his on-the-job achievements, he also sets them in his educational advancement. He finished his master's degree in Aeronautical Science with a GPA of 3.9 while deployed.

"Capt. Avery truly embodies the spirit of ROA's Company Grade Officer of the Year award for 2011", commented Boutet. "Whether at home station or deployed, he demonstrated superior leadership, high initiative, and a compassion for his personnel that was simply exemplary. He is a model junior officer with a bright future ahead of him."