LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
"Maintainers are the unsung heroes and the heart and soul of combat," said Col. Matt Molloy, 1st Fighter Wing commander.
This year's Maintenance Professional of the Year banquet, held March 13, was a testament to their efforts, as maintainers, aviators, families and friends came together to honor those that make Langley home to two of the premier fighter wings in the Air Force.
Traditionally, the banquet is a noisy event, and this year was no different, as Col. George Zaniewski, 1st Maintenance Group commander, encouraged attendees to "get their rowdy on."
This year's banquet marked the first time that both active-duty and Air National Guard personnel were honored at the same ceremony; however, Col. Philip Guy, 192D MXG commander, reminded Airmen that total force integration is not a new concept, with roots extending back to World War I.
Guest speaker Chief Master Sgt. James Honeycutt, Superintendent for the Directorate of Logistics for the ANG, eloquently presented accounts of some of the Air Force's most notable heroes and demonstrated how the military has a heritage of integration since the birth of our country. Afterward, he offered insight on past and current Air Force challenges.
Following his presentation, Chief Honeycutt and Chief Master Sgt. Warren Field, 192D FW Total Force Integration office, were recognized for their service as the two longest serving chiefs in the Combat Air Forces.
Maj. Gen. Jerry Rogers MPOY award winners included:
Airman
Airman 1st Class Michael Rebeor, 1st Fighter Wing
Senior Airman Darshele Green, 192D Fighter Wing
Noncommissioned Officer
Tech. Sgt. Shawn Mullins, 1st Fighter Wing
Staff Sgt. Trent Baker, 192D Fighter Wing
These maintenance warriors come together and accomplish the mission, making every Airman a winner.