Eielson brings back awards boards

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Coleman
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Standing in the hallway pressed and polished, Airmen await their turn to sit in front of a board and prove they should be selected for the 354th Fighter Wing's Quarterly Awards here July 15.

The Quarterly Awards program recognizes Airmen for their hard work, activities within the community and efforts to better themselves personally. Due to higher deployment rates since the September 11 attacks, most Air Force bases have gone away from face-to-face boards and evaluated Airmen on packages.

The 354th Fighter Wing is going back to the boards, allowing Airmen the opportunity to personally show off their knowledge of National and Air Force current events, basic Air Force information such as customs and courtesies, and their role in the 354th FW mission.

"It helps us make the right selection that represents the best of the best in our wing," said Chief Master Sgt. Jerry Moore, 354th Fighter Wing command chief. "It gives us more insight into the person we're recognizing as the best of the best. The board itself isn't worth many points, it's not the end-all be-all of how we select our winner -- the package is still the biggest piece of this process."

Prior to the face-to-face process, board members reviewed packages sent for each category from each group. The package contains an Air Force Form 1206, explaining why the nominee deserves the award. In addition to evaluating the member's military image, the new process will allow board members to consider military bearing, communication skills and knowledge of issues impacting the Air Force.

"The boards are important because it is all about getting back to basics," said Chief James North, 354th Medical Group superintendent. "Our goal as all Airmen is to be strategic communicators and to communicate the Air Force message. We learn more from them than they do us. Each Airman explained how their expertise ensured the success of Eielson AFB and the Air Force -- whether it's a medic, communicator, budget analyst, maintainer, or target analysts -- all are important."

Placing emphasis back on the individual is the primary reason for restoring face-to-face boards. A recognition program is an opportunity for Airmen to stand out from their peers.

"There is no better professional development tool in my opinion. After 27 years in the Air Force, I still remember that first board I faced as an Airman," added Chief North.

Winners will be announced during the Quarterly Awards luncheon July 22 at the Yukon Club.