LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Virginia –
Langley’s Airman Against Drunk Driving held their first recognition ceremony Jan. 25, where 36 of Langley’s finest received Gold Award recognition.
The Gold Award is given to volunteers who work the AADD Call Center five or more times within a calendar year.
“Being the only person in my squadron to win the ‘05 Gold Award, I was given a Commander’s Coin,” said Senior Airman Paul Hanover, 36th Intelligence Squadron. “Those two things meant more to me than any recognition I ever could have received.”
Other than the Gold Award, the 30th Intelligence Squadron was recognized for filling the most volunteer slots throughout the year. The 30th IS filled 151 slots with the average squadron only filling 45.
The ceremony also recognized members from local businesses and organizations who donated to the organization’s success.
Representatives from AAFES, the Defense Commissary Agency, Anna’s Pizza, and Langley Top Three received plaques thanking them for their support.
Three of the Gold Award recipients distinguished themselves above the rest by volunteering 12-15 times: Airman 1st Class Abigal Miranda, 30th IS; Airman 1st Class Theresa Lawant, 1st Comptroller Squadron; and Staff Sgt. Alta Domingo, 1st Communications Squadron.
Airman Lawant said she volunteers to prevent death and DUIs.
“I’ve seen the very disturbing outcomes when people drink and drive and I don’t want to imagine those things happening to my coworkers, friends, and the people I care most about,” she explained.
Each weekend Airman of all ranks work the call center. These weekends are divided into four shifts, two on Friday night and two on Saturday night.
With the efforts of not only the Gold Award receivers, but all volunteers, Langley AADD was able to make 1046 saves in 2005.
“No Airman should feel like his best option, for whatever reason, is to drink and try to push himself to drive home drunk,” said Airman Paul Hanover, 36th Intelligence Squadron.
Langley AADD executive officers and members of sub-committees put together the Gold Award Recognition Ceremony. It was hosted by Langley AADD President, Senior Airman Brandy McWhorter and Vice President, Senior Airman Willard Mitchell, 1 CPTS.