LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
"I was shocked," Master Sgt. Michael Dyer, 633d Security Forces Squadron first sergeant, recalls thinking, following the 9th Air Force's announcement of First Sergeant of the Year March 5 at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.
The 2009 9th AF Outstanding Performers of the Year banquet recognized 54 nominees, but ultimately chose eight for their exceptional performance throughout the year.
As a 633d Security Forces Squadron first sergeant, Dyer saw his share of courts-martial, deployments and fallen comrades. Some of the most notable accomplishments include: deploying nearly 180 security forces Airmen in support of high-risk overseas contingency operations; launching a squadron Traumatic Stress Response Program, which set the benchmark for twenty-two 1st Fighter Wing units; and leading the capture of a deserter within 24 hours, enabling a general court-martial without delay.
With each incident, Dyer drew experience and wisdom he would like to share with fellow Shirts. "My award is a reflection of the strength of the First Sergeants' Council," he explained. "As first sergeants, we need to keep taking care of our people, getting out from behind our desks and relying on each other. Life's short - make sure our folks aren't letting life pass by them."
The latter lesson falls close to home for Dyer, who experienced a near-death experience in November while running. "I literally died while running," he recounts. "I'm a long-distance runner, and I died at a mile."
The incident scared Dyer into change, as he now closely monitors his health and insists his Airmen are also "Fit to Fight." On a personal note, he is committed to renewing his family ties, as he places their interests at the top of his priority list.
"It's always been about my Airmen and their careers," he said. "Now, it needs to be more about my family and the rest of our lives together ... many thanks are due to my wife, Danielle, for 16 years of support."
Participating 9th AF units included Langley Air Force Base, Va., Shaw AFB, S.C., Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C., Eglin AFB, Fla., Moody AFB, Ga., and Robins AFB, Ga. The night's award winners will represent the 9th AF at the Air Combat Command Outstanding Performers of the Year banquet later this year.