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Recognizing spouses with Joan Orr Award

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. John Gordinier
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  There are many awards active-duty members could be nominated for, from monthly to annual awards, but the Air Force recognizes the significant contributions made by non-military spouses of military members as well through the Joan Orr award.

The Joan Orr award, sponsored by the Air Force Association, honors the late Mrs. Joan Orr, wife of former Secretary of the Air Force Verne Orr.

The annual award represents a period of service from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, said 1st Lt. Christopher Riechlen, 20th Fighter Wing staff officer. The nominee's husband or wife must be serving in the Air Force, either active duty, Guard or Reserve. Military members who are active duty, Guard or Reserve are not eligible to be nominated for the award.

The lieutenant said the nominations include facts and specific accomplishments that clearly state the individual's contributions to the Air Force, to include specific examples in: participation in base and community activities; articulate and influential spokesperson for the Air Force; voluntary service in Air Force-related organizations and activities; contributions to the states or to the nation; moral and religious leadership; contributions to the resolution of contemporary social problems; membership in professional, civic, or cultural organizations; self-improvement efforts; leadership and other accomplishments.

According to the Air Force Personnel Center, organizations and base-level personnel must contact their major command, field operating unit, direct reporting unit, or equivalent for the appropriate application due date and additional information regarding nomination procedures. Each MAJCOM, FOA, or DRU may submit one nomination. Completed nominations must be sent to AFPC by March 1, 2010, but Lieutenant Riechlen said the 20th Fighter Wing's deadline is Jan. 13, 2010.

For more information about the Joan Orr Award and application requirements, visit AFPC's "Ask" Web site and type "Joan Orr" into the search engine, or call the Total Force Service Center-San Antonio at (800) 525-0102.