McConnell holds annual awards banquet

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Team McConnell held its annual awards banquet at the Robert J. Dole Community Center Ballroom, Feb. 6.

The evening was devoted to recognizing McConnell's outstanding military and civilian performers for 2008.

"These titles will follow them for the rest of their careers," said Chief Master Sgt. James Morman, 22nd Air Refueling Wing interim command chief. "Don't rest, keep doing the things that got them to where they are today. Also the Air Force needs them to create more winners."

"I think Master Sgt. Shad Lochner deserves recognition for heading the banquet committee and pulling off a first-class event," said Master Sgt. Brian Ward, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant.

"Without the work of a lot of people these events don't happen," the chief said. "I'd also like to thank all the community partners, private organizations, and countless others that made this the huge success."

Congratulations to this year's Team McConnell annual award winners.

Airman of the Year
Senior Airman Daniel Mills, 22nd Medical Support Squadron
"I feel honored to be recognized at this level. It is definitely the result of hard work by many in my chain of command and I owe them many thanks."

Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year
Staff Sgt. Lisa Cochran, 22nd Operation Support Squadron

Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year
Senior Master Sgt. Pamela Rathers, 22nd Mission Support Group chief
"I am very grateful and honored to receive this award. It would not have been possible without the help of others and many thanks to them all."

Officer of the Year
Capt. Johari Hemphill, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron
"Winning this award validates the hard work and effort put in by every person in the Logistics Readiness Squadron."

Civilian Category I of the Year
Mr. Michael Teer, 22nd Civil Engineering Squadron

Civilian Category II of the Year
Mr. Stephen Yavornitzki, 22nd Air Refueling Wing

First Sergeant of the Year
Master Sgt. Brian Ward, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron
"Winning the award was truly an honor. I love being a First Sergeant and to be recognized in that manner is truly special to me."

Honor Guard Member of the Year
Senior Airman Marcus Meyer, 22nd Operations Support Squadron