An Airman Above & Beyond Award

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Col. James C. Vechery, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, recognizes Airman 1st Class Herschell McKinley, 22nd Communications Squadron, with the first “An Airman Above and Beyond Award” at the Comm Focal Point, June 10. Colonel Vechery, rewards Airmen who are observed doing things above and beyond their normal duties, by awarding them a one day pass. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Jamie Train)

Colonel Vechery highlights Airman

Published June 11, 2009
By Staff Sgt. Jamie Train
22nd Air Refueling WIng Public Affairs

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- An Airman Above and Beyond Award

Airman 1st Class Herschell McKinley
22nd Communication Squadron
comm. focal point technician

Airman McKinley is from Lyles, Tenn., and has been in the Air Force for one year. He has served at McConnell for eight months. When he's not at work, he enjoys computers, fishing, paintball and cars.

What did you do to become the first recipient of this award?
I was walking out of the fitness center and rendered a salute to Colonel Vechery. I continued on to my car, and there was a bottle on the ground which Colonel Vechery was going to pick up, and I picked the bottle up instead and told Colonel Vechery not to worry about it.

How does it feel to be the first recipient?
I am very happy to be able to represent my squadron in the light that it should be shown.

What would you suggest to other Airman to do to receive this award?
Do your job correctly and to the best of your ability. Do the right thing all the time not just when somebody is watching and treat the base as if it is something you own. Just because you are not in charge or in command, this is still your base.