CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The Citation of Honor was awarded to three Charleston AFB Airmen at the 2006 South Carolina Air Force Association awards ceremony at the Ft. Jackson NCO Club, Fort Jackson, S.C., May 5.
Capt. Daniel Lang, 437th Operations Support Squadron wing combat tactics pilot, Staff Sgt. Jeremy Ward, 315th Maintenance Squadron aerospace maintenance journeyman and Senior Airman Jake Viveiros, 437th Security Forces Squadron phoenix raven, were recognized by the Air Force Association for most outstanding contributions by an individual or organization to the development of aerospace power for the betterment of mankind.
These three Airmen received their awards for many different accomplishments throughout 2006.
Captain Lang received the Outstanding Aviator Award. Among his many accomplishments, he was the lead pilot of the 2006 C-17 20-ship formation, the largest C-17 formation in world history. He also delivered Special Operations units to war-torn Fallujah, along with key equipment for hunting most wanted terrorists and reducing enemy threat.
"It was a great honor," said Captain Lang. "But you have to keep in perspective that there are so many key components of Team Charleston that allow something like the 20-ship happen. Everyone involved deserves recognition."
Sergeant Ward received the Outstanding Aircraft Technician Award. Among his many accomplishments, he dispatched for troop air deflector door failing operations checks during aircrew preflight just prior to take-off on critical missions. He troubleshot and replaced a proximity sensor target. He also removed and replaced damaged door hinges three hours ahead of schedule to allow the aircraft to be used for presidential support.
"When my superintendent told me I won this award, I was surprised," said Sergeant Ward. "I didn't expect to win. I do my job, I don't usually keep track with awards."
Airman Viveriros received the Outstanding Mission Support Award. Among his accomplishments, he transported more than 40 tons of munitions to a forward operating base in Afghanistan and ensured stringent security. He also safeguarded senior Cabinet members transiting throughout classified locations in Asia and ensured top rate security was provided.
"Airman Viveriros is one of the most outstanding Airmen I've ever met," said Master Sgt. Carl McCoy, 437th Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge of Phoenix Ravens. "He's just that motivated."
The Air Force Association is an independent, nonprofit, civilian education organization promoting public understanding of aerospace power and the pivotal role it plays in the security of the nation.