18th Air Force Airmen recognized as "outstanding"

  • Published
  • By 18th Air Force Public Affairs
18th Air Force Airmen have earned the Air Force's largest Numbered Air Force the service's prestigious Outstanding Unit Award.

The AFOUA, awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force, recognizes units which have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service. Airmen assigned to the 18th Air Force from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, 2013 are authorized to wear the AFOUA ribbon or appropriate cluster. Civilians are authorized to wear the AFOUA lapel pin.

"Though we don't carry out our demanding missions for acclaim, it is nonetheless gratifying to see our efforts recognized by our senior leaders," said Lt. Gen. Darren W. McDew, the NAF's commander.

Specifically cited by the AFOUA was the command's "unmatched warfighter support" to global operations, including record-setting operations that completed more than than 49,085 sorties while transporting 700,610 passengers and 212,850 short tons of cargo.
 
"I couldn't be prouder" said McDew. " However, I also believe that as important as this recognition is, an even greater recognition is the more quiet kind ... the lives forever changed for the better because of our efforts. Rather than a ribbon on our uniforms, that recognition is on display on the faces of thousands of people we will likely never meet."