PA Specialist named Graydon Williams Award winner

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Lausanne Kinder
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, ARIZ. --  The Tempe Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee presented the 2014 Graydon Williams Award to Tech Sgt. Louis Vega Jr., 944th Fighter Wing, Public Affairs specialist, during a luncheon Feb. 11.

This year, Tech. Sgt. Graydon Williams' sister, Alma and husband Harry Shappell, and his brother Neal Williams, attended the ceremony honoring an Air Reserve Technician who has gone above and beyond in service to the unit.

"I would like to express what an honor it is to receive an award that was named after a good man with a great work ethic," said Vega, who started working with the PA office in 2009 and was hired as an ART in 2013.

Vega was also recognized by Col. Kurt Gallegos, 944th FW commander.

"TSgt Vega has done a phenomenal job with every retirement, banquet, luncheon, and all the other events he has been involved in," said Gallegos.

"Not only does Vega significantly contribute to the wing as a PA specialist, he is also actively pursuing a degree in Public Relations to further his career development."
"[Maj. Magnusson], my goal for this year is to continue to learn, bust my butt and make your job easier," said Vega.

He thanked his wife, Christine for encouraging him to apply for the position he's now in and Maj. Elizabeth Magnusson, 944th FW PA officer, for taking a chance and hiring him. His mother, Kathleen and youngest son, Vicente also attended.

"2014 was an extremely busy year for our office and we are already bringing the heat for 2015," said Vega.  "Ever since I can remember I always wanted to be part of a team ... I am thankful and proud to be part of the 944th FW team and I humbly accept this award."

The Graydon William Award is presented annually to an Air Reserve Technician or Active Guard Reserve member who personifies the character and traits of the late Tech. Sgt. Graydon Williams, a 944th Fighter Wing maintenance ART who died at a young age of cancer. The essence of the award is based on superior performers who do not seek recognition, perform clearly above expectations, and have not been adequately recognized for their overall contributions and impact on the wing.