944th FW Graydon Williams Award Winner Recognized

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Louis Vega Jr.
  • 944th Fighter Wing
Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. --  February 12 marked the 19th annual Graydon Williams Award Ceremony. A luncheon was held at Club Five Six honoring this year's recipient Master Sgt. Jeffrey D. Braselton, 944th Force Support Squadron Chief, personnel systems management.

Every year the 944th Fighter Wing partners with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee and selects an Air Reserve Technician who embodies the characteristics of Tech. Sgt. Graydon Williams, who passed away Nov. 18, 1995. Sergeant Williams, a Vietnam veteran, was an ART who joined the 944th Fighter Wing in 1987 and was the crew chief for aircraft 86-291, the 302nd Fighter Squadron flagship. He served his country with great honor for more than 20 years.

Braselton has been an ART with the 944th FW for over five years. "I think that teamwork was the key to my winning this award," said Braselton. "It is displayed on a daily basis in the 944th FW. It's possible to work hard, put in extra hours and get absolutely nothing done. Only with a cohesive team do we accomplish our short and long term goals. I think that it also helps to have a strong work ethic, which is one of the character attributes that Graydon Williams exhibited.

When asked what he thought embodied the sprit of the Graydon Williams Award Braselton replied, "do your job, and respect those that you work with. When you are tasked with something or have a problem to solve approach it with tenacity. You were probably asked to perform that task or solve that problem because somebody has faith that you can complete the objective. Prove to them that you can. Strive to provide excellent customer service at all times, we all have customers."

Major Lonnie D. Sell, 944th Force Support Squadron Commander, also shared in the enthusiasm displayed for Braselton and his success in receiving the award. "I am extremely proud of MSgt Braselton and what he has done for the 944th FSS and the Wing. He is truly an unsung hero", said Sell. "MSgt. Braselton is the epitome of service before self, he makes sure everything gets done right the first time and always with a smile. He is the first to step up to get the mission done and he is always looking for opportunities to grow as a leader and as an Airman."

The Graydon William Award is presented annually to an ART 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.