944th FW Reservist among the 12 best

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stephen Razo
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Tech. Sgt. Stephen R. Hunter Jr., an explosive ordnance disposal technician with the 944th Civil Engineer Squadron, has been selected as one of the 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year for 2010 and is the only Air Force Reserve Command recipient this year.

Maj. Gen. Frank J. Padilla, 10th Air Force commander, traveled here Aug. 24 to pay tribute to Sergeant Hunter's recent awards and accomplishments during a 944th Fighter Wing ceremony and luncheon. During his comments, General Padilla said, "This is the way things should be -- a major general congratulating a deserving Airman."

A battle-tested Airman, Sergeant Hunter is not one to shy away from what motivates him. His peers detect a strong character with hints of calmness protected by resolve. When he talks, they feel comfortable...and safe.

"I hope to impress on those that meet me that Reserve forces are trained professionals, fit to fight, and deploying in support of the needs of our nation," Sergeant Hunter said. "I hope to lead by example and inspire others who meet me to strive to meet their full potential."

When you review his accomplishments over the past year, it's hard to believe there are 11 others that can stand equal to him.

Sergeant Hunter has 107 accomplished combat missions, personally destroyed 29 improvised explosive devices, and cleared 3,000 kilometers of critical supply routes.

"Embracing a positive attitude and possessing a solid work ethic has seen me through difficult times," Sergeant Hunter said. "I expect to grow over the next year and will continue approaching my job putting my best foot forward. I am looking forward to passing on the leadership and mentorship that has helped me achieve this honor and inspire others to do the same."

But make no mistake about it, this past year has meant sacrifices for his family. His self-proclaimed volunteer spirit could not have been satisfied without his family's commitment and according to Sergeant Hunter, that commitment "...has moved me this year more than anything else."

During the afore mentioned wing ceremony and luncheon, Sergeant Hunter felt a similar commitment to family from General Padilla. He recalls, "My two year old daughter, Scarlett, spent more time on the general's lap than my own. My family walked away with a real sense that our family's well being was important to the Air Force and Major General Padilla."

It really comes down to one very important fact, Sergeant Hunter is the only reservist to be among the 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year...and he belongs to the 944th Fighter Wing family. His outstanding service serves as a heightened call to serve proudly and be ready when called upon.

"Regardless of your Air Force Specialty Code or accolades received, our service to our fellow Americans is one of the most noble acts that we will ever give to others. The pride of patriotic service will be with you always, and with each passing year, it will grow more profound," Sergeant Hunter said.

The Air Force Association will honor the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year during its Air and Space Conference and Technology Exposition in Washington, D.C., in September. Sergeant Hunter will also serve as a member of the AFA's enlisted advisory council for the next year.

As a nominee, he is authorized to wear the Outstanding Airman of the Year ribbon and having been selected as one of the 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year, he will wear the bronze service star device on the ribbon and also wear the Outstanding Airman of the Year Badge for one year from the date of formal presentation.