Reserve wing awarded ATA trophy

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Ellen L. Hatfield
  • 349th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 349th Air Mobility Wing has been named as the first recipient of the Airlift Tanker Association's Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III award.

Holding aloft the crystal trophy with a globe that symbolizes global reach, Brig. Gen. Maryanne Miller, 349th AMW wing commander, said, "It is a great honor to lead and serve with all of you. Each and every one of you earned this."

Newly created by the A/TA, this award is presented yearly and recognizes an Air Force Reserve wing or group that has had the most significant impact on the success of the Mobility Air Force. "The unit embodies the spirit and essence of the Citizen Airman, balancing the operational demands of today's global mobility operations, maintaining a viable strategic reserve for tomorrow while embracing responsibilities to their civilian employers, community, and family," according to the A/TA narrative.

The citation, in part, reads: "A proud member of Team Travis, the 349th AMW is the first ever recipient of the General Sherrard award. Led by General Miller, the 349th AMW set themselves apart by leading the command in effective manning, readiness, inspections, deployments and operational mission support."

The citation continues: "The largest associate wing in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, the 349th AMW is the embodiment of a well-oiled, organized and effective wing ... the 349th excelled at all levels. Travis Reservists were recognized for outstanding performance in every aspect of their mission."

The citation also went on to list some of the 349th AMW's accomplishments.

"The 349th led the command in all eight categories considered for this award, which include ancillary training, mission readiness and operational participation. During the past year they performed a total of 218,891 days away from station; an average of more than 72 days TDY per Airman. AFSO-21 leading initiatives saved more than 1,400 maintenance man-hours and more than $500,000 annually through improved fleet configuration and identified operational efficiencies. With one of two U.S. Air Force port mortuary teams, they ensured 315 of our fallen heroes were honored distinctively," the citation continued. "This was in addition to providing honor guard support for 720 funerals and 260 ceremonies honoring our brothers and sisters in arms. A role model for others, the wing recently distributed more than 35,000 school supplies to underprivileged children at five local schools. Furthermore, 349th Airmen provided more than 100 meals per week to local veterans. Their sustained positive impact to the community is evident daily and lauded by civic leaders."

This award is named for Lt. Gen. (Ret) James Sherrard, former commander of Air Force Reserve Command and the Air Force Reserve.