22nd CES Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Colby L. Hardin
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Staff Sgt. David VanHorn, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron contracting officer representative, was selected to be the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of Aug. 12 to 16.

As a contracting officer representative, he is responsible for quality assurance of grounds and refuse contracts in addition to making sure that all of the contractors working on base for waste collection and disposal, installation appearance and snow removal are being paid properly.

VanHorn has been stationed at McConnell AFB for approximately eight months, and in the Air Force for more than 17 years. When he's not working, he enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting.

"VanHorn has gone above and beyond in ensuring that McConnell Air Force Base is in pristine condition" said 1st Lt. Jacob Bright, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron operations flight commander. "He was vital to ensuring the roadways and parking lots were re-opened in a timely manner for the base populace to return to work after the fourteen inch snow storm."

VanHorn has re-written the entire grounds maintenance contract to incorporate a new 25 percent reduction in service that will take effect Sept. 1, 2013. His efforts pushed McConnell to the forefront as one of the first AMC base to implement these changes, said Bright.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My mother is the most positive influence in my life because no matter what is in her way, good or bad, she always has a positive outlook on life.


If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
If I could give advice to new Airmen, I would tell them to always be positive toward the military and life in general because a good attitude and work ethic will get you far in life.


What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
One goal that I would like to accomplish is to finish getting my bachelor's degree in educational studies and continue to get my master's degree in education.


Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place I have traveled would have to be Korea. The differences in living conditions has taught me not to take the things we have for granted.


If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I could meet anyone in the world, I would like to meet the president of the United States to express some of the thoughts and ideas that I have.