944th annual awards honor excellence

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Barbara Plante
  • 944th Fighter Wing, Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  As a celebration of outstanding achievements by wing members the 2015 944th Fighter Wing Annual Award winners were honored during a Hollywood black tie gala held at the Wigwam Resort on Jan. 30.

During the event, which was heavily steeped in heritage with a few lighthearted touches, Col. (Retired) Richard Toliver, a "Second Generation" Tuskegee Airman provided the keynote speech for over 420 attendees.

As a 26-year veteran of the United States Air Force, Toliver is a command pilot with 4,000 flying hour to include 446 combat missions in Southeast Asia. 

Graduating from  the Tuskegee Institute with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering in the early 60's he was taught and mentored by several original Tuskegee Airmen.  He was one of the first five African American 4-F pilots to serve under the famed Tuskegee Airman, General Daniel "Chappie" James, USAF.

Toliver went on to serve throughout the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, North Africa, and the Persian Gulf and commanded a number of units and held key staff positions in major command of the Air Force.

In a deep and captivating voice Toliver spoke to the large audience about leadership, core values and commitment to excellence.    

"This is indeed a fantastic evening. This reminds me of the days we were on active duty.  It is indeed a privilege to share this activity and to be here to help recognize these young men and women who have gone above and beyond the norm while meeting a myriad of difficult challenges." said Toliver. 

"As a veteran like you, I am personally grateful that there are young men and women who are still coming forth to serve our great Nation."

Growing up in the 40's and 50's the colonel reflected on how he overcame struggles with racial oppression and poverty.  He shared stories about being a young officer and the importance of knowing everything possible about your assigned job, getting to know those who work with you, and the huge significance of follow-up.

"Core Values matter especially when no one is present or no one is looking.  They must be embraced daily, adhered to in practice, and lived faithfully regardless of the temptation to do otherwise.  They are the very foundation of who we are as service men and women; they guide us in everything we do - at home, in the community, in the office, and ultimately on the battlefield," he said.

He talked about commitment to excellence which he summed up by saying, "Someone's life may depend on my personal commitment to excellence in the job to which I am assigned."

"Each and every one of you can be proud of the fact you are part of the 1.4 million people in the armed forces and one of over 850 thousand who are in the reserve component. Like every generation of the past, you answer the call.  Through difficult circumstances and personal hardship, social unjust and even racial oppression you took that solemn oath.  There is no greater love or legacy to service than one who would lay down their life for his county," said Toliver.  

He finished his address by adding, "Every generation has the opportunity to be great, to serve their self, and to serve others.  This is your time to do what you are doing and to keep staying on course.  Ensure you seize the moment!" 

944th members have to balance their military service, personal lives and professional careers each and every day.  Many have to make hard sacrifices in several areas to ensure the Air Force accomplishes its missions.  The individuals considered for the 2015 annual awards clearly demonstrated sustained and superior performance throughout the year. 

   "Congratulations to the award winners, you are the best of the best,"  Col. Kurt Gallegos, 944th commander said while closing the ceremony.

The 944th Fighter Wing 2015 Annual Award Winners are:
Senior Civilian of the year: Ms. Frances Kremer, 944th Force Support Squadron  
Junior Civilian of the year:  Ms. Terri Clay, 944th Fighter Wing Staff 
Field Grade Officer of the year:   Maj. James Hunt, 924th Operation Support Flight
Company Grade Officer of the year:   1st Lt. Blake Conley, 414th Maintenance Squadron 
Instructor Pilot of the year:   Maj. Justin Robinson, 944th Operations Group
Weapon System Officer of the year:   Maj. Timothy Foery, 307th Fighter Squadron
First Sergeant of the year: Senior Master Sgt. Francis Albee, 414th Maintenance Squadron  
Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the year:  Master Sgt. Miguel Gonzales, 944th Medical Squadron  
Non-Commissioned Officer of the year: Staff Sgt. Melinda Charlton, 944th Force Support Squadron
Airmen of the year: Senior Airmen Brandon Ritter, 944th Security Forces Squadron