126th Maintenance Group reognized for receiving the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award

The 126th Maintenance Group, including 126th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 126th Maintenance Squadron and 126th Maintenance Operations Flight, was recognized for receiving the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) in a parade ceremony at Scott AFB, Ill., on Feb. 4, 2012. Army Maj. Gen. William Enyart, Adjutant General, State of Illinois; Air Force Brig. Gen. James Schroeder, Commander, Illinois Air National Guard; and Air Force Col. Peter Nezamis, Commander, 126th Air Refueling Wing; followed military tradition and ceremoniously attached the AFOUA streamer to the squadron’s guidon in the formal ceremony attended by more than 830 members of the 126th Air Refueling Wing and guests. The 126th Maintenance Group is commanded by Air Force Col. Rick Keasey and the squadron received the award for exceptionally meritorious service from Oct. 1, 2008 through Sept. 30, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Franklin Hayes)

126th Security Forces Squadron recognized for receiving the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award

The 126th Security Forces Squadron was recognized for receiving the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) in a parade ceremony at Scott AFB, Ill., on Feb. 4, 2012. Army Maj. Gen. William Enyart, Adjutant General, State of Illinois; Air Force Brig. Gen. James Schroeder, Commander, Illinois Air National Guard; and Air Force Col. Peter Nezamis, Commander, 126th Air Refueling Wing; followed military tradition and ceremoniously attached the AFOUA streamer to the squadron’s guidon in the formal ceremony attended by more than 830 members of the 126th Air Refueling Wing and guests. The 126th Security Forces Squadron is commanded by Air Force Lt. Col. John Bryk and the squadron received the award for exceptionally meritorious service from Aug. 1, 2009 through Sept. 30, 2011.

Change of Command

Col. Peter Nezamis (left) hands the 126th Operations Group guidon to Col. Jeffrey Jacobson in a traditional military Change of Command ceremony on Nov. 5, 2011 at Scott AFB, Ill. By accepting the guidon, Col. Jacobson symbolically accepts the responsibilities as commander over the Airmen of the group. (National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Franklin Hayes)

Tech. Sgt. David Carrillo was selected as the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for the 906 ARS

Tech. Sgt. David Carrillo was selected as the Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for the 906 ARS. Tech. Sgt. Carrillo is an electro-environmental systems craftsman with the 906th and received this award in part for identifying an emergency situation and taking appropriate action saving nearly $40 million in potential damage. Tech. Sgt. Carrillo also has been involved with frequent deployments offering experience beyond his years and supports his local community through various volunteer efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ken Stephens)

Senior Airman Maribeth Ethridge was selected as Airman of the Year for the 126 ARW

Senior Airman Maribeth Ethridge was selected as Airman of the Year for the 126 ARW. Senior Airman Ethridge is a Nondestructive Inspector assigned to the 126th Maintenance Squadron and received this award in part for superior self-initiative, unswerving distinguished performance, and being a true Air National Guard ambassador. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ken Stephens)

Master Sgt. Kendrick Henry was selected as the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for both the 126 ARW and the state of Illinois

Master Sgt. Kendrick Henry was selected as the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for both the 126 ARW and the state of Illinois. Master Sgt. Henry is a Security Forces Craftsman assigned to the 126th Security Forces Squadron and received this award this award in part for his devotion to duty and his troops, spectacular performance, and commitment to excellence. His OAY package will next compete at the National Guard Bureau level against Senior Non-Commissioned Officers from around the NGB. Master Sgt. Henry recently returned from a 6-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (Courtesy Photo, U.S. Army)