JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. —
Two members of the South Carolina Military Base Task Force were recognized with the Air Force Commander’s Public Service Award for their outstanding public service and commitment to the military and their families here Apr. 19.
Bill Bethea, SC MBTF chairman and Charlie Farrell, SC MBTF executive coordinator, were presented the awards by Col. Rob Lyman, Joint Base Charleston commander, and Col. Jimmy Canlas, 437th Airlift Wing commander, during the SC MBTF’s quarterly meeting held at JB Charleston.
As Chairman of the SC MBTF, Bethea’s tireless efforts supported military families across the Palmetto state. He advocated and initiated a pilot program to assist military dependents. This program provided support and training to high school teachers and guidance counselors on the challenges that military children may experience during multiple moves.
As Executive Director of the SC MBTF, Farrell’s ceaseless efforts directly supported military families across the Palmetto state. He worked with several installations on child care capacity challenges, plus disconnects between state programs and national accreditation standards necessary to receive federal funding support.
“In the Air Force we have a special award for a citizen’s dedication which significantly improved the conditions for base personnel and whose service was voluntary, performed as a public service and motivated by patriotism,” Lyman said. “Along with Col. Canlas, we’re honored to bestow these awards to Mr. Bethea and Mr. Farrell for their outstanding leadership, commitment and dedication to the accomplishment of the mission of the U.S. Air Force.”
The Commander's Public Service Award is presented to recognize service or achievements that contribute significantly to the accomplishment of the mission of an Air Force activity, command, or staff agency.