22 MDG 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. --  For Airmen to earn a Faces of A/R recognition, they must be nominated by members of their leadership, who choose individuals based on their demonstration of the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Senior Airman Christopher Newman, 22nd Medical Support Squadron pharmacy services front-line supervisor, received the Faces of Air Refueling recognition Aug. 17.

Newman orchestrates the daily flow of traffic for filling and dispensing of prescriptions from the McConnell AFB pharmacy. He oversees accountability of controlled substances for the Medical Group and ensures compliance with Air Force Instructions, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Joint Commission Regulations. He also manages the frontline operations of 13 staff members and approximately 800 prescriptions a day.

“Senior Airman Newman has stepped up to lead the frontlines in the pharmacy in the absence of noncommissioned officer leadership,” said Capt. Karl Hemerlein, 22nd MDSS flight commander of laboratory. There has been no interruptions in operations and I am impressed with his ability to lead and operate the pharmacy, a position typically filled by a seasoned, senior NCO.”

The Manchester, Jamaica, native joined the Air Force in March 2015 and arrived at McConnell in November 2015.

What are the best parts about the job?

Establishing and building relationships with the retirees and beneficiaries of McConnell AFB and being able to serve them in retirement in thanks for them serving our country in the past.

How do you feel you contribute to the mission?

When we dispense medication accurately and timely, we support medical readiness, support warfighter status and deploy ready Airmen.

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

Communication, reiteration and initiative. Setting very small goals and completing them within the time I allot for myself boosts my momentum and inner motivation.

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

Continue to further my professional military education. Having completed my [degree] from the Community College of the Air Force, I plan to shoot further with a Bachelor’s.