DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --
Air Force Global Strike Command announced its recipients of the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award June 18. The 7th Bomb Wing earned the award for exceptional meritorious service for the period of Jan. 1, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2017.
According to the award’s description, AFOUAs are given to numbered units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from similar units.
"I couldn't be more proud of the men and women who have worked hard day in and day out," said Col. Brandon Parker, 7th Bomb Wing commander.
During the award period, the 7th Bomb Wing supported global operations by providing a continuous bomber presence and enabling the first ever B-1 Total Force deployment; where more than 300 active duty and Air Force Reserve Command personnel generated 266 sorties and 1,100 flight hours in the Pacific area of operations.
At home, the wing graduated the largest B-1B basic course in 10 years, increasing production 25 percent and generating 99 aviators. With the wing’s support, the 28th Bomb Squadron won the 2017 Eaker Trophy for best B-1 bomb squadron. Additionally, innovative Airmen did their part by adapting an avionics tester that saved the Air Force $89.9 million dollars in depot-level repairs and received the Chief of Staff of the Air Force’s Team Excellence Award.
In the community, Dyess firefighters worked side-by-side with local firefighters to battle a 700-acre wild fire over six hours; saving eight local farms and strengthened our partnerships. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the wing supplied 1.1 million gallons of fuel to 143 vehicles, sustaining the Coast Guard’s search and rescue mission and ultimately saving 4,000 people.
"This award is a direct reflection of the level of dedication and excellence that takes place on Dyess Air Force Base every day and demonstrates the impact each Airman can have on our overall success,” said Colonel Parker.