28 FSS wins ACC awards

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Abigail Klein
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Air Combat Command recognized the 28th Force Support Squadron in five different categories recently, as part of the 2008 ACC Manpower and Personnel Annual Awards.

The awards categorically recognize individuals and groups who are considered to be at the top of their game in their career fields throughout the ACC, said Maj. Launa Bellucci, 28 FSS commander.

"The mission of the 28 FSS is to provide superior combat support and customer service, worldwide and for team Ellsworth, while leveraging technology to embrace transformation," Major Bellucci said. "The [Manpower and Personnel] awards are significant to 28 FSS because they validate we are indeed 'superior' in our profession when compared to other ACC bases. I am so proud of all the FSS nominees we put forth in the competition -- especially those who were selected as winners."

The 28 FSS sent 21 packages to ACC headquarters. Of them, five were selected at the ACC-level and will go on to compete at Air Force level. Awards the 28 FSS won include:

Bowling Program of the Year

Fitness and Sports Program of the Year

Readiness Program of the Year

Individual award winners are:

Unit Level, Senior Civilian Education and Training Manager of the Year: Daniel L. Holst, 28th Medical Operations Squadron

Senior NCO of the Year: Master Sgt. Steven M. Grim, 28 FSS

The individual award winners were both responsible for organizing important programs and changes within their squadrons.

Mr. Holst was instrumental in improving the technical training curriculum and weighted Airman promotion testing validity. His management of the Wing Career Development Course recognition program allowed Airmen to be awarded monthly rather than waiting six months for recognition. Mr. Holst's talents as an instructor were also noted - his resumé included more than six Air Force training courses for 75 28th Medical Group and Air Force Financial Service Center trainers.

The Senior NCO of the Year, Sergeant Grim, was awarded for his leadership, training, housekeeping, logistics and reception for the ACC lodging program of five buildings where he helped bring about $10 million worth of new furnishings, equipment and facilities. He instigated a $500,000 renovation for 30 rooms at the Aspen Inn. He also responded quickly during two blizzards here, ensuring all 150 lodging guests remained safe during three days of base closures.