Dyess sergeant recognized as ACC's Armament Manager of the Year

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Charles V. Rivezzo
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Master Sgt. Carlos Pena, 7th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron weapons section NCO-in charge, was recently recognized as Air Combat Command's 2012 Armament Manager of the Year.

"I'd be lying if I didn't say it feels great to be recognized, but this recognition is a result of all the men and women of the weapons section," Pena said. "This award may have my name on it, but each of them earned it."

The San Antonio native has been in the Air Force for 22 years and has worked in the maintenance career field throughout his entire enlistment. Pena stated that his favorite part of the job is watching his weapons crews during loading operations on the B-1B.

As the NCOIC of 7th AMXS's weapons section, Pena managed 10 deployed weapons crews in support of the largest B-1 deployment ever in 2012; helping the 9th Bomb Squadron earn the 2013 Air Force Association's Citation of Honor.

Additionally, at home station, Pena and his weapons crews support four B-1 squadrons to include the 9th BS, 28th BS, 77th Weapons Squadron and 337th Test and Evaluation Squadron. During 2012, the efforts of the 7th AMXS weapons section led to the generation of more than 2,000 sorties and 14,000 flying hours.

"Sergeant Pena's recognition is well deserved," said Senior Master Sgt. Dan VerNooy, 7th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron's weapons section superintendent. "He has always been someone I can count on to get things done in a timely and efficient manner."