‘Reflections of hope’ – Robins AFB 78th Air Base Wing hosts annual awards banquet

The 78th Air Base Wing at Robins Air Force Base held their annual awards banquet Saturday evening at the Museum of Aviation.

This year’s banquet theme was “Reflections of Hope.” Command Chief Master Sergeant of the 42nd Air Base Wing at Maxwell Air Force Base-Gunter Annex, Alabama, Michael Morgan, was this year’s guest speaker.

Morgan shared stories of the different missions he has been on during his time of service. He said all airmen have similar stories of stepping outside of their comfort zone and making the mission happen.

“Simply being an airman, there’s a trust to meet the expectations set forth,” Morgan said. “My hope becomes the expectation based off trust in you and each other. I hope I represent the Air Force well. But be the glue that keeps the machine together. Set an example for others to follow, and aim high.”

Next was the award presentation made by Colonel Lyle Drew, Commander of the 78th Air Base Wing, Chief Master Sergeant Gary Hart, and Morgan. The awards were presented as follows:

•Field Grade Officer of the Year – Major Megan Steele

•Company Officer of the Year – Captain Grant Talkington

•Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year – Master Sergeant Jahara Brown

•Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year – Tech Sergeant Matthew Miller

•Airman of the Year – Airman First Class Joseph Lavalle

•Civilian of the Year Category One – Charlie White

•Civilian of the Year Category Two – Crystal Hardy

•Civilian of the Year Category Three – Delmer Langley

•Senior Non-Commissioned Officer IMA of the Year – Senior Master Sergeant Stephanie Rumley

•First Sergeant of the Year – Senior Master Sergeant Neil Stokley

•Honor Guard Program Manager of the Year – Master Sergeant Mark Reed

•Honor Guard Member of the Year – Airman First Class Isaac Camacho

In closing, Col. Drew stated it was a great night and a great way to begin the new year.

“This year’s theme is “Reflections of Hope,” and these honorees are our reflections of hope,” Drew said. “Congratulations to them, the nominees, but also the supervisors, leaders, and family members that support them everyday in this endeavor we call service. It’s a team sport, and we cannot do this alone. Thank you to our community partners as well who truly embody that Every Day In Middle Georgia Is Armed Forces Appreciation Day (EDIMGIAFAD). It’s another great year for Robins 2019, and we are excited to be joined by the folks in this group and our 53 other mission partners. Continue to aim high.”