Three LRS members earn ACC-level awards

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joshua G. Moshier
  • Black Hills Bandit staff
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Team Ellsworth continues to bring home hardware as three members of the 28th Logistics Readiness Squad-ron were named Air Combat Command award winners March 15.

Tech. Sgt. Rheiff Mikkonen was named 2005 ACC Fuels NCO of the Year; Senior Airman Caneisha Haynes was named 2005 ACC Transportation Airman of the Year; and Ms. Lisa Brackett was named 2005 ACC Logistics Readiness Instructor of the Year.

“These individuals truly exemplify the core values of our Air Force,” said Lt. Col. Robert Callahan, 28th LRS commander. “Their initiative, hard work and desire to be the best are reflected in their accomplishments, both on- and off-duty, and were major factors in their selection for these prestigious awards.”

The winners were proud of their accomplishments and quick to share the award with their fellow LRS members.

“I credit my leadership and co-workers for great teamwork,” said Airman Haynes. “I’m proud to be a member of the Air Force and my squadron. LRS plays such an important part in supporting the mission.”

Ms. Brackett shared those sentiments.

“The active duty folks I work with have a big part in what I do and what we accomplish together as a flight,” she said. “I’ve been a combination of civil service, active-duty Air Force and Air Force Reserve for over 24 years, and I’m very proud to be a part of what we’re doing and knowing we can make a difference.”

Sergeant Mikkonen’s leadership had glowing reviews for his contributions to the Ellsworth mission.

“Sergeant Mikkonen is our top-notch technician,” said Master Sgt. John Lucas, 28th LRS fuels operations section chief. “Not only does he know everything about storing and issuing fuel, but he can fix all of our equipment, and that’s not our job.

“By being as knowledgeable as he is, he helps guide our Airmen to a better understanding of the job they do and why it’s important to the Air Force.”

“Our installation was one of two bases in ACC to have three distinct functional areas receive recognition at the major command-level annual awards,” Colonel Callahan said. “These awards are a testament to the diversity of the outstanding efforts of all the men and women of the 28th LRS.”