12 AF (AFSOUTH) recognizes two Dyess members

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Eric Petosky
  • 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern)
DAVIS MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Two members of the Dyess Air Force Base team were honored for their outstanding performance in 2008 during the Twelfth Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Outstanding Performer of the Year banquet here March 11.

Staff Sgt. Ryan Oliver, 7th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal craftsman, received the award in the NCO category. Staff Sgt. Oliver received the Bronze Star Medal for combat actions in Iraq. He led a three-man team on 43 improvised explosive device search-and-destroy missions, making safe a 2,000 mile main supply route. He also executed a two-day raid with special operations forces on a safe house, denying the enemy use of five additional IEDs.

Mr. David Laurence, 7th CES Environmental Flight chief received the award in the senior grade civilian category. Mr. Laurence leads 9 personnel and manages a $1.3 million budget. He was recognized for terminating all 43 restoration sites and 30-year actions, earning the 2008 Air Combat Command Environmental Restoration Installation Excellence Award. He also developed a new disposal method for 1 million gallons of fuel-contaminated water, saving $86,000. Finally, his modified "Trash to Cash" disposal contract netted $15,000 the first year by selling waste oil and fuel.

The award presentation coincides with the weeklong Total Force Commanders' Conference here March 9-13, during which more than 50 civic leaders, commanders, and command chiefs discussed a range of issues affecting the command and the Air Force.

"Our organization is geographically separated, so having the opportunity to sit down for a week of face-to-face communication among commanders and command chiefs, as well as our civic leaders, is invaluable," said Lt. Gen. Norman Seip, Commander, 12th Air Force (AFSOUTH). "Additionally, this conference allows for an opportunity to recognize the nine outstanding Airmen and civilians of Twelfth Air Force who have epitomized 'excellence in all we do' over the course of the year."

"Together, we will celebrate the accomplishments of our team, and pave the way for continued success in 2009," he added.

The topics discussed during the Total Force conference included a discussion of current operations across the command and in the U.S. Southern Command area of focus. Senior leaders also discussed efforts to support Airmen and their families, safety, fitness, new policies and current manning challenges across the Total Force.

"Total Force Integration capitalizes on the inherent strengths of the different Air Force components," said General Seip. "The Air Force team of Active Duty Airmen, Air National Guardsmen and Air Force Reservists provide the Joint Force with highly skilled, experienced and dedicated Airmen prepared to accomplish any mission. Total Force Integration enhances our combat and joint enabling capabilities today and well into the future."

12th Air Force (AFSOUTH) comprises seven active-duty wings, 14 Air Reserve and Guard units, and two direct reporting units in the western and midwestern United States. The command is also responsible for six forward operating locations, and civil and military engagements in Central and South America as well as the Caribbean.

During the Outstanding Performer of the Year ceremony, the command awarded nine Airmen and civilians with the 2009 Outstanding Performer of the Year award. The Airman, non-commissioned officer, senior NCO and First Sergeant category winners will go on to compete for Air Force-level annual awards.


Recipients of the 2009 Outstanding Performer of the Year award are:

Airman Category
Senior Airman Roy L. Mcallister, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho

Noncommissioned Officer Category
Staff Sgt. Ryan K. Oliver, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas

Senior Noncommissioned Officer Category
Senior Master Sgt. Brian L. Rogers, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla.

First Sergeant Category
Master Sgt. Christopher S. Fowler, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho

Company Grade Officer Category
Capt. Daniel C. Werner, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M.

Field Grade Officer Category
Maj. William H. Jelks, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

Senior Civilian Category
Mr. David Laurence, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas

Intermediate Civilian Category
Mr. William C. Russell, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho

Junior Civilian Category
Mr. Troy C. Huggins, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.