22nd ARW Airman earns Faces of A/R recognition

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alan Ricker
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Airmen chosen for Faces of Air Refueling recognition are selected by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Amn Robert Burlison Jr., 22nd Air Refueling Wing command and control operations controller, received Faces of Air Refueling recognition Oct. 12.

Burlison processes and disseminates force direction nuclear control orders in support of leadership figures including the president of the United States, secretary of defense, Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman and U.S. Strategic Command commander. He operates seven nuclear command and control systems, provides operational command and control of active duty and reserve strategic air refueling forces. He also ensures accurate, timely flight following of 48 KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to McConnell.

“In my 19 years of service, I’ve never seen a sharper junior enlisted airman. He’s a self-starter and his awareness, dedication and commitment to the mission and his fellow Airmen is inspiring,” said Senior Master Sgt. Divina Clark, 22 ARW C2 operations superintendent. “He is the best of the best.”

The Oceanside, California native, joined the Air Force in September 2016 and arrived at McConnell in February 2017.


What are the best parts about the job?

Knowing everything that is happening on base at a moment’s notice and having the ability to pass that information to whomever needs to know.

How do you feel like you contribute to the mission?

I feel like I contribute to the Air Mobility Command mission on a daily basis by passing all information regarding air refueling to each aircraft and aircrew in a timely matter so they may perform to their highest ability. I also contribute by receiving information from all base agencies that could impact our mission. This allows me to relay accurate information to base leadership allowing timely decisions to be made, which keeps the base running like a well-oiled machine.

What are the keys to success in your Air Force career?

Having great mentors and leaders around you so you may learn and grow.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?

I would like to continue growing as a student and an Airman by furthering my education and learning from those around me.