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Military Citizen of the Year

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Patrick Mitchell
  • 20 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce recently named the 2008 Military Citizen of the year. The Chamber recognizes an individual who has made contributions of significance on Shaw Air Force Base and in the local community during the past calendar year. 

Senior Master Sgt. Tricia A. Benning, Enlisted Aid to Lt. Gen. Gary North, 9th Air Force and U.S. Air Forces Central commander, was presented the award Jan. 17, at the Grande Dunes Marriott Resort & Spa in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
 
Last November, Maj. Tony England, 9th AF and U.S. AF Cent commander's executive, nominated Sgt. Benning and the Chamber chose her from four other Shaw nominees.
"I didn't think anyone could compete with her, with all the volunteering she does with the Air Force and Shaw, "Maj. England said.
 
As chapter President and now Senior Advisor for the Air Force Sergeants Association chapter at Shaw, Sgt Benning reinvigorated a failing chapter into a thriving and focused professional military organization. She also partnered with Crosswell Children's Home and in 2008 supported more than 12 events and managed more than 240 volunteers to benefit the children. 

"I am very appreciative for the award because there were a lot of people that also gave to the community," Sgt Benning said.