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Annual Awards Banquet

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Williams
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The spotlight shined bright on the top 20th Fighter Wing Airmen and civilians of 2007 during the Annual Awards Banquet held at the Carolina Skies Club Jan. 26.

A packed house cheered for the nominees as they entered the banquet hall to kick off the event.

After special guests were introduced and the dinner was served, the crowd was entertained by the U.S. Air Force Heritage Band of America: Blue Aces, who performed a specialized fast-paced performance.

After the band's performance, it was time to announce the best of the best for 2007. However, before the official announcement, Col. James Post, 20th FW commander, started a new wing tradition when he announced a special first-time award.

To his surprise, Chaplain (Col.) Gary Perry, 20th FW wing chaplain, was presented with the first-ever 20th FW Lifetime Achievement Award.

After a long standing ovation for the chaplain, it was time to name the 20th FW annual award winners for 2007:

Airman category; Airman 1st Class Latoya Dawson, 20th Mission Support Group
Noncommissioned Officer category; Tech. Sgt. Antwan Newsom, 20th Operations 
Group Senior NCO category; Master Sgt. Franklin Wilson, 20th Maintenance Group
First Sergeant Category; Master Sgt. Tanya Carbone, 20th MSG
Company Grade Officer category; Capt. Ronald Hurt, 20th MSG
Field Grade Officer category; Maj. Lynn Savage, 20th OG
Civilian category (GS-6/WG-7 & below); David Watson, 20th OG
Civilian category (GS-7/WG-8 & above); Bruce Hildreth, 20th MXG
Wingman Pilot Award; Capt. Brad Balazs, 20th OG
Flight Lead Pilot Award; Capt. Lee Bryant, 20th OG
Instructor Pilot Award; Capt. Scott Fann, 20th OG
Honor Guard Team Leader; Staff Sgt. Telissa Diggs
Honor Guard Ceremonial Leader; Senior Airman Alan Howard.

The winners will now move on to compete at the Numbered Air Force level
where they will face competition from around the Air Force.