Civilian Airman earns city recognition for economic impact

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. David Bernal Del Agua
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Jeff Longwell, City of Wichita mayor, awarded a McConnell Air Force Base civilian Airman a bronze coin and a certificate for his work with businesses in the local community, Aug. 15, in Wichita.

Dennis Fry, 22nd Contracting Squadron deputy commander, has been partnering with individuals from several organizations across the state such as Wichita State University, Small Business Administration and Wichita Public Schools to improve the competitive environment in Wichita.

“From mowing the lawn and trash service to doctors at the clinic and new roads, Dennis has a hand in all of it,” said Maj. Mark Wagner, 22nd CONS commander. “Every single member working on base uses something that involves a contract. However, he truly goes above and beyond to really work with the local community to understand how the Wichita economy can support the Air Force and, in turn, how the Air Force can support Wichita.”

In his time here, Fry has overseen more than $78 million spent on firms in Wichita. His efforts pushed McConnell to become the top Air Force base in promoting small business programs with nearly 99 percent of funds going to small businesses.

“Dennis is an unsung hero that has been working behind the scenes for years to make this community strong and not only succeed, but rise to be one of the best in the nation,” said Wagner. “In his time here, he has proven himself as an asset to the Air Force as well as Wichita.”

The mayor took time during a council meeting to recognize Fry for all the work he was done to make Wichita a competitive market.

“Dennis Fry is a perfect example of an individual who came to Wichita by chance, but stayed by choice,” said Longwell. “His passion for this city does not go unnoticed or unappreciated by the many people and local organizations who work with Mr. Fry.”

According to Wagner, the ceremony was a good moment for recognizing many years of service from one of McConnell’s civil servants with the city.

“His contributions to business development in Wichita have helped the community greatly over the years and it's good to see people take note,” said Wagner.