ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Ellsworth Air Force Base won the Verne Orr award at the Air Force Global Strike Command level on Jan. 19, 2018, and is now competing at the Air Force level.
The award was established by the Air Force Association in honor of former Secretary of the Air Force Verne Orr. It’s used to recognize mission oriented accomplishments and the effective use of human resources.
“The 28th Force Support Squadron is our human resources unit,” said Maj. Michelle Durand, the 28th FSS commander. “We play a big role in all of the manpower requirements that other organizations need around base.”
Team Ellsworth was given the award for multiple reasons: They rekindled the Continuous Bomber Presence mission to help stabilize the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, managed the largest airspace in the continental United States, and opened a $480,000 cold spray facility that saves the Air Force $70 million annually.
“Our Airmen at the wing work diligently to ensure the mission is carried out effectively,” said Reva Fleming, the 28th Bomb Wing chief of manpower and organization. “Manpower, as well as the rest of the base, are doing their part to make sure our wing is more efficient and more effective.”
Ellsworth AFB will now compete with bases across the Air Force. The competition will be tenacious, but Durand has the upmost faith in her team.
“I believe we have a great chance of winning,” Durand said. “The Airmen on this base work extremely hard day in and day out to complete the mission. I am very proud of them and their accomplishments.”